Diabetes and You: The Diabetic Foot Check

You are a recently diagnosed diabetic and have been bombarded with a ton of information about the lifestyle you should now live. On top of this, your primary care physician tells you to inspect your feet daily. What does this mean? Is this similar to a military or government inspection? Do I place a stamp on my foot afterwards showing it has been approved? In answer.Yes, without the stamp of course. Your feet must be critically inspected on a daily basis to ensure longevity of function and health.

The Check List:

Besides tight blood sugar control, the following must be part of your daily routine.

  • Dry your feet completely following showers/baths/swimming. Yes, this means in between the toes. Between the toes is the easiest place to inadequately dry. The moist environment lends itself to fungal or bacterial infection.
  • Keep your nails trimmed. If you have also been diagnosed with neuropathy (loss of sensation), have your local Podiatrist cut your toenails.
  • Inspect your feet with a fine tooth comb for any signs of callus formation. Calluses are formed in areas of increased pressure or friction. Ulcers can easily form because of a simple callus. If you have difficulty looking at the bottom of your foot, place a mirror on the floor and then view the bottom of your foot. Areas that have a high incidence of callus formation are:
  • Tips of the toes
  • Tops of the toes
  • Ball of the foot
  • Bottom OR back of the heel
  • Along the outside of your big toe
  • Along the outside of you foot
  • Keep your feet conditioned with lotion. However, try to avoid the web-spaces if possible. Always make sure to rub the lotion in fully before putting a sock or shoe on.
  • Make sure you are wearing good supportive shoes that are the correct size. If you have neuropathy, contact your local Podiatrist concerning diabetic shoes and inserts.
  • Try to avoid going barefoot, especially if you have neuropathy.
  • Follow up with your doctors on a regular basis.

If you are diabetic and have any concerns about the integrity and health of your feet, please contact Dr. Bowman at 713-467-8886 or Houston Foot Specialists online.

2013 Jeff Bowman., All Rights Reserved

Category: Diabetes

Tags: Bacterial Infection, Calluses, Diabetes, Diabetic Foot Care, Diabetic Shoes, Fungal Infection, Neuropathy, Ulcers