Our Top 7 Summer Foot Care Tips for Diabetics
Most people look forward with anticipation to wear sandals or walking barefoot on the beach during the summer months. But for diabetics, the nerve damage and poor circulation in their feet can make simple activities dangerous. Today Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland is sharing his top summer foot care tips for patients with diabetes.
Diabetics always have to pay special attention to taking care of their feet, even in the otherwise carefree summer days. But this doesn’t have to mean a season confined in sneakers. By taking a few precautions, you can still enjoy sandal weather.
Follow these suggestions to enjoy the summer months while protecting your feet at the same time.
Maintain correct glucose levels. Try to maintain proper blood sugar levels as directed by your physician. A healthy diet, proper medication, monitoring your blood sugar, and regular exercise can help maintain the proper levels.
Don’t go barefoot. It can be a huge temptation to walk carelessly through the sand, but broken glass, ocean debris, and seashells can perforate the skin of your feet and lead to infection. Sidewalks or hot sand can also burn your feet, so always wear proper footwear when you’re going to be walking outside.
Choose the right socks and shoes. Your shoes should fit properly because if they are too small, they can cause calluses and blisters. Mature feet typically change sizes 4 to 5 times, and weight variations, poor circulation and weather can change the size of your feet. When purchasing socks, choose those that are thick and soft with no seams, because they could cause blisters.
Examine your feet each day. For patients with diabetes, it’s important to examine your feet before you put your shoes on and after you take them off. Look between your toes, on your heel, and in your shoe for any fragments.
Moisturize for smooth skin. In the summer, it’s easier for the skin on your feet to become dry. Apply moisturizing lotion on the top and bottom, but don’t put it in between your toes as excess moisture can result in a fungal infection.
Shape your toenails properly. Cut them straight across and file the edges of the nails to reduce the risk of ingrown toenails.
For patients with diabetes, regular appointments with your podiatrist are crucial. During the summer months, diabetic feet are at an increased risk for fungal infections because of the excess moisture and heat.
Visiting your podiatrist at least one time during the summer months can guarantee that you’re keeping your feet as healthy and happy as possible. So while it’s on your mind, why not contact the office of Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland today to schedule a consultation? You can call the office at (410) 761-3501 or request an appointment online.