MD Podiatrist Provides Tips to Keep Diabetic Feet Healthy

Good diabetes foot care starts at home, and it takes only a few simple habits to identify foot problems before they grow serious, or to stop them from developing in the first place. If it’s not easy for you to examine the bottoms of your feet independently, enlist the help of a loved one or caregiver. “If [you’re] unable to do it [yourself], then it’s best to have a family member assist,” says Dan Michaels, DPM. “Using a mirror or smartphone camera to get a look at the bottom [of your feet] is also a good idea.”

Not keeping your feet clean can increase your risk for infection, too. “Regular bathing or showering, including cleaning and inspecting between the toes, is very beneficial,” says Dr. Michaels. Cleaning your feet should be a daily practice. Use warm soapy water, and after washing, make sure to dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes. “If moisture gets trapped in between the toes, and socks or shoes are put on right away, that skin can be more prone to breakdown and infection,” says Dr. Michaels. “So either thoroughly drying the feet or letting them air dry for a bit before putting on socks and shoes is important.”