If you suffer from diabetes, chances are you know how dangerous this condition can be to the feet. Even a small cut can result in severe complications. In this read, we are going to discuss several tips to look after diabetic feet as provided by Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot and Ankle Center of Maryland.

Moisturize the Feet on a Daily Basis

Applying a moisturizer regularly will help prevent the skin from itching and cracking. However, do not use it between the toes as it could trigger a fungal infection.

Cleanse the Feet in Lukewarm Water

Clean the feet on a daily basis using lukewarm, but not hot water. Also suitable for nail treatment for fungus.

Cut the Toenails Properly

When it comes to cutting the nails, do so straight across and file the edges. Avoid cutting them too short. The last thing you want is ingrown toenails.

Check Your Feet Every Day

Examine your feet for cuts, swelling, redness, blisters, and problems with the nails. If you see something that does not look right, consult your podiatrist as soon as possible. Ensure that your shoes are not causing any issues, visit the Orthotic Shop to find the ideal shoes.

Be Gentle

Clean your feet using a soft washcloth or sponge and pat dry or blot gently. Be especially careful to dry the region between your toes thoroughly.

Wear Socks in Bed

If your feet get cold at night, wear socks rather than using a heating pad or a hot water bottle.

Keep Them Warm and Dry

When going outside, you don’t want your feet to get wet or cold in the rain or snow. As such, keep them warm and dry by wearing shoes and socks.

Speaking of socks, you’ll want to ensure they are clean and dry. Consider buying those specifically designed for diabetic feet at the Orthotic Shop. These usually have additional cushioning and go beyond the ankle. They do not have elastic tops and are made from fibers that get rid of moisture.

Avoid Treating Corns or Calluses Yourself

You don’t want to do ‘’bathroom surgery’’ on diabetic feet. Instead, visit a podiatrist for ideal treatment.

Avoid Walking Barefoot

Even when at home, ensure you have shoes or slippers. People often forget about their feet at home but it is just as important to have supportive slippers, the Orthotic Shop have a great range of orthotic slippers. After all, you don’t want to risk stepping on something that will cause a cut or bruise.

Go for Foot Exams

Ensure you visit your podiatrist regularly for exams. This will help mitigate complications that come with diabetic feet.