Care Regimen for Diabetic Patients

If you’re one of the thousands of patients who have been diagnosed with diabetes this year, we at Texas Foot Specialists, want to help you learn how to be proactive in the care of your feet. Circulation deficiencies combined with neuropathy (two common issues associated with diabetes) make your feet vulnerable to foot problems that can pose a serious medical threat. Fortunately, you can significantly lower your risk by following some simple practices regularly.

Keep it Clean

Washing your feet daily with soap and water will go a long way to helping prevent viral and fungal infections like athlete’s foot, warts, and fungal toenails. It’s also important to only wear clean socks and to alternate your shoes so that fungi don’t have a chance to grow and thrive in your footwear.

Take a Good Look

When you’re cleaning your feet it’s a good time to examine them for signs of potential podiatric issues. Redness, sores, blisters, rashes, lumps, bruises, or swelling may all be indicators that a problem is developing. You’ll want to report anything suspicious to our podiatrists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum, right away so they can try to stop trouble before it starts.

Day and Night

Develop a daily plan for taking care of your feet. In addition to cleaning, get in the habit of applying an anti-fungal or another type of powder to your feet in the morning to help feet stay dry all day. At night, a rich, emollient cream massaged into heels and soles will compensate for reduced oil gland secretion and give feet the moisture they need to prevent dry, cracking skin.

Shoes

If you haven’t already, switch to shoes that have a wide, roomy toe box made of soft, flexible material. The goal is to keep shoes from rubbing against your skin and causing irritation. You’ll also want to avoid high heels and styles that crowd your toes and push them forward.

When it comes to diabetes and the health of your feet, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you spot anything on your feet that causes you to be concerned, don’t hesitate to contact our Sugar Land (281-242-4448), Pasadena (281-991-0600) or Houston (713-664-6677) offices.