Individuals with diabetes are at an increased risk for developing various foot problems, such as diabetic neuropathy or foot ulcers. Caring for the feet daily is an extremely effective way to dramatically reduce the risk of foot problems when you have diabetes. Our Upper West Side, New York, NY, podiatrist Dr. Jennifer Fung-Schwartz, offers diabetic foot care services to keep your feet healthy.
Diabetic Foot Problems
Patients with diabetes have a higher risk of developing foot conditions and problems. One reason for this is damage to the blood vessels and nerves in the feet caused by high blood sugar. Nerve damage can lead to tingling, numbness, and loss of feeling in the feet.
Another reason foot problems can develop is due to poor blood circulation, which causes foot wounds to heal more slowly than normal. Longer healing times increase the risk of infection. If not treated promptly, an infection could lead to more serious problems.
Examples of foot conditions and problems that are often more common among individuals with diabetes include:
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Corns and calluses
- Charcot’s foot
- Toenail fungus
- Foot swelling
The experienced and knowledgeable podiatrist at our New York, NY, office can help you develop a diabetic foot care routine to prevent problems and keep your feet healthy.
Diabetic Foot Care
One of the most important components to diabetic foot care is examining your feet everyday. Check for injuries, wounds, and other problems. Look for things like redness, cuts, blisters, scrapes, scratches, punctures, and ingrown toenails. Treat any wounds or injuries right away to help prevent infection. In addition to checking the feet daily, other ways to care for diabetic feet include:
- Wear socks and shoes throughout the day to protect against injury
- Wear comfortable shoes that fit properly
- Change socks and shoes everyday
- Keep your feet clean and dry
- Moisturize your feet daily
- Wear loose fitting socks to bed
- Keep feet warm in cold weather
- Trim toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails
- Move around or stretch throughout the day to improve circulation
Diabetic foot care is extremely important and helps prevent foot problems. For assistance developing an effective diabetic foot care routine, schedule an appointment with our Upper West Side, New York, NY, podiatrist Dr. Fung-Schwartz, by calling (212) 678-2333.