LOVE Your Feet

Diabetes increases your risk for foot problems.

These foot problems most often happen when there is nerve damage also called neuropathy, which results in loss of feeling in your feet.
Poor blood flow or changes in the shape of your feet or toes may also cause problems.

How can these conditions affect me?

When you have nerve damage in your feet, you may not feel pain or be able to sense temperature, which can hide foot injuries.
Decreased blood circulation can lead to slow healing of wounds.

Even minor injuries, such as a blister, can develop into serious infections if you don't notice them and if they go untreated, can lead to amputation.
Exercise is good for poor circulation. It stimulates blood flow in the legs and feet.

Practicing careful foot care and keeping your blood glucose levels on target can keep your feet safe.

One of the biggest threats to your feet is smoking.

Smoking affects small blood vessels. It can cause decreased blood flow to your feet and make wounds heal slowly. So stop smoking if you smoke!!!

What can I do to take care of my feet?

Wash your feet daily with warm (not hot) water and soap.
Dry your feet gently but thoroughly with a soft towel.
If your skin is dry, apply lotion (but not between your toes). (Also don't soak your feet - that can dry your skin).
Inspect your feet every day. Look at the tops, bottoms, and sides of your feet as well as between your toes. Use a mirror to help you see the bottoms and sides of your feet, or get help from a family member. Check for sores, cuts, bruises, rashes, blisters, red spots, swelling, calluses, corns, and ingrown toenails. If you have a foot injury, call your health care provider. Don't try to take care of foot problems yourself. Some over-the-counter foot remedies can harm your skin, making problems worse.
Let your health care provider cut your calluses. (Never try to cut calluses or corns yourself - this can lead to ulcers and infections).
Use your hands to feel for hot or cold spots, bumps, or dry skin.
Trim your toenails straight across and file the edges. Rounded edges help prevent ingrown toenails.
Choose socks that won't irritate your feet, such as seamless socks or those with flat or soft seams.
Before you put on shoes, feel inside them to make sure there are no pebbles or rough edges that might injure your feet. You may not be able to count on the nerves in your feet to feel something wrong with your shoes or socks.
Protect your feet at all the times by wearing shoes or slippers with socks, even around the house. Never walk barefoot.
Wear shoes that provide enough room so your feet and toes don't rub against the inside of the shoes. If you have foot problems, Medicare or your private insurance may pay for special shoes. Ask your health care provider whether you are eligible.
Keep the blood flowing to your feet by putting your feet up when sitting. Wiggle your toes and move your ankles up and down for 5 minutes, 2 to 3 times a day. Also, don't cross your legs for long periods of time.

What foot exams should I have?

At each office visit, your health care provider should look at your feet. You can remind your provider to do so by taking off your shoes and socks once you are in the exam room.
In addition, your health care provider should do a complete foot exam at least once a year, which includes:

A check of the skin, muscles, and bones.
A monofilament test (tests for sensation in your foot).
Feel the pulses in your feet to check for circulation

Most importantly, Get started now!!! Begin taking good care of your feet today. Set a time every day to check your feet.