Recently, we’ve discussed the importance of foot care for diabetic patients and how to identify some of the causes of foot pain. To learn more about these topics, visit the links below. For more information on foot health or to schedule a podiatry consultation, call Family Foot Center today at (718) 767-5555.

• For recommendations on foot care for diabetics visit U.S. National Library of Medicine.
• Take a look at this article from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, to learn more about arches and flat feet.
• View this guide for tips from the National Institutes of Health on foot care and diabetes.
• The American Diabetes Association provides helpful information on how feet can be damaged by diabetes.
• Learn more from the American Academy of Pediatrics in this article about foot injuries.

If you are a diabetic, then you may already closely monitor your diet and blood sugar, but proper foot care is also essential to your health and wellbeing. Your podiatrist has the expertise to help diabetics keep their feet healthy. The Family Foot Center has been taking care of patients with diabetic feet for over 25 years.

• Why Foot Care Is Vital

There are particular steps that must be taken to maintain healthy feet with diabetes. If your blood sugar level is high, then the nerves in your legs and feet can be severely damaged, making it difficult and in some cases impossible to notice injuries. The blood flow to your feet will be decreased, making it harder for sores on your feet to heal. If sores or infections are left untreated, then tissue dies and gangrene sets in. Once gangrene develops, amputation is avoidable. Amputation may prevent spread and limit the damage and perhaps save a limb.

• How to Prevent Damage

There are some precautions that can help prevent injuries to your feet when you have diabetes. Before stepping into a shower or bathtub, test the temperature of the water with a thermometer to avoid burns. Look for the temperature to be ninety-five degrees Fahrenheit.

You can develop sores or ulcers on your toes if you trim your nails incorrectly. Visit your podiatrist or regular care. At the Family Foot Center we see out diabetics at least every four weeks or more often if needed.

Wearing shoes that fit well is vital. Don’t be a slave to fashion. Get shoes that fit first and are appealing second.

After bathing, carefully dry between each of your toes, as infections are more likely to develop in damp areas. Use a moisturizer after bathing to prevent your skin from becoming dry and cracked.

• Importance of Regular Exams

Have your feet inspected daily by a non-diabetic. They should look for small wounds, redness, swelling and anything unusual. Anything unusual should be immediately brought to the attention of the podiatrist.
While having diabetes may make you more susceptible to foot problems, it is possible to keep your feet healthy by taking preventative action and care. To learn more about foot care and diabetes, contact Family Foot Center today at (718) 767-5555.

Are you looking for more information about the topics addressed in our recent blog posts? Read through the following for more details on arthritis of the foot and other foot problems, as well as how to purchase the right pair of shoes. If you’d like to know even more, then call Family Foot Center at (718) 767-5555.

• To learn more about arthritis of the foot and ankle, visit the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons online.

• If you have more questions about osteoarthritis of the foot, then check out the American  College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons’ Foot Health Facts page.

• For more tips on choosing an appropriate pair of shoes, read through these ten shoe buying tips from MedicineNet.com.

• Would you like to know more about common foot conditions? View this WebMD.com slideshow.

• For more advice on how to purchase walking shoes as well as a general overview of shoe anatomy, read this post from MayoClinic.com.