Improving Foot Health for Diabetics

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We at Texas Foot Specialists know that managing diabetes can be challenging. We’d like to make it a little simpler when it comes to protecting the health of your feet. Conditions associated with diabetes such as decreased sensation in your feet due to nerve damage, poor circulation and gland issues can lead to medical and comfort issues with your feet. Below are some ways to ensure good foot health if you have diabetes.

Daily Care

Incorporating some additional steps into your existing hygiene regimen will go a long way to avoiding fungal infections and detecting any problems in their earliest stages.

  • You most likely are already in the habit of washing your feet daily. Be sure to dry them completely too—especially between the toes as this is where athlete’s foot often starts.

  • Check your feet daily for any cuts, blisters, rashes, swelling, growths, skin or nail changes and alert our podiatrists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum to anything suspicious.

  • Change your socks more than once a day if your feet tend to sweat profusely.

  • Use talcum or anti-fungal powder in the morning.

  • Apply a rich moisturizer at night to combat dry skin and prevent cracks.

Footwear Choices

It’s essential to avoid friction and rubbing from your shoes in order to avoid blisters and wounds.

  • Choose roomy styles made of soft, flexible materials.

  • Don’t wear high heels that put pressure on your toes.

  • Discard old shoes that are stretched out or have loose stitching and holes.

  • Before buying new shoes, run your hand around the inside of the shoe to make sure there are no rough patches or thick seams.

Lifestyle Changes

Make good overall health choices to help control diabetes and improve foot and overall health.

  • Don’t smoke—it impedes circulation.

  • Exercise regularly. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, deal with stress and improve circulation.

  • Schedule regular appointments with the podiatrist to evaluate your feet and monitor chronic conditions. Contact our Sugar Land (281-242-4448), Pasadena (281-991-0600) or Houston (713-664-6677) offices to schedule your next visit.