For individuals living with diabetes, foot care is an essential aspect of managing their overall health. Diabetes can affect circulation, nerve function, and wound healing, making the feet particularly vulnerable to complications like infections, ulcers, and, in severe cases, amputations. However, proper foot care can prevent many of these complications. Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi and Dr. Neil Patel at Emerald Coast Podiatry in Fort Walton Beach and Crestview, FL, and serving Niceville, FL, can explain diabetic foot care and give you tips on how to care for diabetic feet.

Protecting Diabetic Feet

Diabetes can cause damage to the nerves and blood vessels, particularly in the lower extremities. This condition is known as diabetic neuropathy, and it reduces sensation in the feet, making it difficult to feel injuries, sores, or infections. Poor circulation (peripheral artery disease) can also slow the healing process, leading to a higher risk of infections and ulcers. Talking to your podiatrist in Fort Walton Beach and Crestview, FL, and serving Niceville, FL, can give you the diabetic foot care tips needed to keep your feet healthy.

Because diabetics may have reduced sensation in their feet, performing a daily foot inspection is essential to catch any issues early. Check for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or other signs of irritation or infection. Contact your podiatrist immediately to prevent further complications if you notice any abnormalities.

Keeping your feet clean and moisturized is another crucial step in diabetic foot care. However, avoiding excess moisture between the toes is important, as this can create an environment for fungal infections. Pat your feet dry gently, especially the areas between your toes. Apply a moisturizer or lotion to your feet to avoid cracked skin, and avoid applying this between your toes.

Proper toenail care helps prevent ingrown nails, which can lead to infections. Diabetics are especially prone to infections, so keeping toenails neat and trimmed is essential. Cut your toenails straight across to prevent them from growing into the skin. If you have difficulty trimming your nails due to poor vision or dexterity issues, seek help from a podiatrist or healthcare provider.

Wearing the right shoes is one of the most critical ways to protect diabetic feet. Poorly fitting shoes can cause blisters, calluses, and pressure sores, which can develop into serious complications if left untreated.

Contact Our Podiatrist Today

Make sure you know how to take care of diabetic feet. Contact Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi and Dr. Neil Patel at Emerald Coast Podiatry in Fort Walton Beach and Crestview, FL, and serving Niceville, FL, to learn more about diabetic foot care and what it may entail. Call us today at (850) 682-6522 for our Crestview office and (850) 862-4119 for our Fort Walton Beach office for an appointment.