Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetic Foot Care

West Chester Podiatry Associates - Thomas K Stickley, DPM will ensure that your feet stay healthy when you have diabetes. Regular leg and foot self-examinations are recommended, as well as yearly checkups. It is important for us to keep you informed about foot care as it relates to cuts and wounds, ingrown toenails, or circulatory issues that have lasted more than a few days.

Contact West Chester Podiatry Associates - Thomas K Stickley, DPM in West Chester, PA at 610-696-1789.

Diabetes Podiatrist – Elderly Woman Swollen Feet in West Chester, PA

West Chester Podiatry Associates - Thomas K Stickley, DPM Is Here To Help

Poor circulation and neuropathy are complications of diabetes that can lead to very severe conditions in the feet. Diabetic foot ulcers are a very serious issue, and if not treated quickly and properly they can escalate to an extent that results in the loss of a foot. For patients with diabetes, it is important to take great care of your feet. Even a small cut on your foot can result in serious consequences. Trust West Chester Podiatry Associates - Thomas K Stickley, DPM to give you the proper care and resources to prevent infection and or a non-healing wound.

Learn More About How To Treat Diabetic Foot Care

The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons recommends the following Foot Care Guidelines to to avoid serious foot problems:

Inspect your feet daily. Check for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling or nail problems. Use a magnifying hand mirror to look at the bottom of your feet. Call your doctor if you notice anything.

Bathe feet in lukewarm, never hot, water. Keep your feet clean by washing them daily. Use only lukewarm water—the temperature you would use on a newborn baby.

Be gentle when bathing your feet. Wash them using a soft washcloth or sponge. Dry by blotting or patting and carefully dry between the toes.

Moisturize your feet but not between your toes. Use a moisturizer daily to keep dry skin from itching or cracking. But don't moisturize between the toes—that could encourage a fungal infection.

Cut nails carefully. Cut them straight across and file the edges. Don’t cut nails too short, as this could lead to ingrown toenails. If you have concerns about your nails, consult your doctor.

Never treat corns or calluses yourself. No “bathroom surgery” or medicated pads. Visit your doctor for appropriate treatment.

Wear clean, dry socks. Change them daily.

Consider socks made specifically for patients living with diabetes. These socks have extra cushioning, do not have elastic tops, are higher than the ankle and are made from fibers that wick moisture away from the skin.

Wear socks to bed. If your feet get cold at night, wear socks. Never use a heating pad or a hot water bottle.

Shake out your shoes and feel the inside before wearing. Remember, your feet may not be able to feel a pebble or other foreign object, so always inspect your shoes before putting them on.

Keep your feet warm and dry. Don’t let your feet get wet in snow or rain. Wear warm socks and shoes in winter.

Consider using an antiperspirant on the soles of your feet. This is helpful if you have excessive sweating of the feet.

Never walk barefoot. Not even at home! Always wear shoes or slippers. You could step on something and get a scratch or cut.

Take care of your diabetes. Keep your blood sugar levels under control.

Do not smoke. Smoking restricts blood flow in your feet.

Get periodic foot exams. Seeing your foot and ankle surgeon on a regular basis can help prevent the foot complications of diabetes.

2020 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS)

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