MD Podiatrist Offers Foot Care Recommendations for Diabetics

With April observed as National Diabetes and Foot Health Month, Dan Michaels, DPM offers these recommendations for diabetics: • Avoid soaking feet, this causes excessive dryness and can lead to cracks. • Check feet daily for any new blisters, wounds, etc. • Avoid going barefoot, especially if you have neuropathy/diabetic nerve damage. • Ask your provider about diabetic shoes!

Work with your providers and/or diabetes educator to keep your glucose within target range. This decreases risk of complications. • If you notice a blister or wound, don’t delay treatment. See a provider with a knowledge on wound care. • Exercise if you are able. This increases blood flow circulation. • Don’t remove callus or corns yourself, see your podiatrist! • If you are able to trim your own toenails, trim straight across. If you are unable to trim your own toenails, see a podiatrist for treatment.