People with diabetes are more prone to foot problems, and even simple foot conditions should be cause for concern. Prevention is key when trying to avoid serious diabetic foot issues.
Examine your feet every day, and make an appointment with your podiatrist early if you see any irritation or sustain a foot injury. Make sure your podiatrist checks your feet at least once a year – and more frequently if you have foot problems.
Livingston Foot Care Specialists in North Bellmore New York are here to help identify and treat all your foot and ankle questions and problems. Our foot doctors have special training in limb salvage and wound care. Livingston Foot Care is associated with the Hyperbaric Wound Care Center at New Island Hospital to help further the care for our diabetic patients with a resistant foot ulcer. At Livingston Foot Care Specialists, the diabetic patient is always a priority.
Caring for Your Feet
Here are some tips to keep your feet healthy:
- Take care of your diabetes. Work with your health care provider to keep your blood glucose in your target range.
- Check your feet every day. Look for red spots, cuts, swelling, and blisters. Use a mirror if you cannot see the bottom of your feet.
- Be active. Plan your physical activity program with your health team.
- Ask your podiatrist about Medicare coverage for special shoes.
- Wash your feet every day. Dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Keep your skin soft and smooth. Rub a thin coat of skin lotion over the tops and bottoms of your feet, but not between your toes.
- Have your podiatrist trim your toenails on a routine basis.
- Wear shoes and socks at all times. Never walk barefoot. Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and protect your feet.
- Protect your feet from hot and cold. Wear shoes at the beach or on hot pavement. Keep feet away from heat (heating pads, hot water pads, electric blankets, radiators, fireplaces). You can burn your feet without knowing it. Water temperature should be less than 92 degrees.
- Keep the blood flowing to your feet. Put your feet up when sitting. Wiggle your toes and move your ankles up and down for 5 minutes, two (2) or three (3) times a day. Don't cross your legs for long periods of time. Don't smoke.
- Get started now. Begin taking good care of your feet today. Set a time every day to check your feet.
