Diabetes isn’t just about monitoring your blood sugar levels. There is always a chance of nerve and blood vessel damage that can be caused by Type 2 diabetes. If you develop neuropathy, diabetes can be a major issue for your feet.
There are steps that you can take in order to care for your feet on your own. Some of these include:
- Take care of your diabetes.
- Check your feet every day for red spots, cuts, swelling, and blisters.
- Ask your doctor about Medicare coverage for special shoes and check-ups.
- Wash your feet every day and apply a thin layer of lotion after drying them thoroughly.
- If you can reach your feet, trim your toenails when they need it and file the corners.
- Wear shoes and socks at all times.
- Keep blood flowing to your feet by putting your feet up when sitting down and wiggling your toes.
- Get pedicures regularly if you struggle to keep your feet healthy on your own.
- It’s never too early to start taking care of your feet, so start now.
Make sure to have your health care provider perform a complete foot exam at least once a year. If you have cuts or breaks in the skin, or an have an ingrown nail, call your health care provider. If you have corns or calluses, your health care provider can trim them along with your toenails if you can’t do so safely.
Since people with diabetes are more prone to having foot problems, a foot care specialist may be on your health care team.
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