If you have diabetes, you have to manage your health wisely. Part of that is taking care of the health of your feet; even a small, seemingly harmless cut can lead to more serious concerns. With nerve damage making your feet feel numb, sores, blisters, and wounds are more likely to develop into long-term issues. Below are some of the key things you should keep in mind for foot care and diabetes.

Trim Your Toenails

Not taking care of your toenails can create unnecessary cuts and sores when your nail rubs up against other toes. Instead, trim regularly by cutting straight across your nail. Be sure to file your nails after to avoid sharp edges.

Inspect Your Feet Daily

Watch out for any redness, swelling, cuts, blisters, corns, or nail or foot changes. If you find anything concerning, make sure to call your podiatrist. Use lukewarm, never hot, water and mild soap to gently wash your feet every day. Make sure your feet are completely dry after your wash.

Visit Your Podiatrist

Working with a podiatrist to keep your feet healthy is crucial. Since so many complications can occur with your feet when you have diabetes, getting advice and daily check-ups from your foot doctor can help prevent serious ailments.

Move Your Body

If you deal with leg pain, exercising might be the last thing you want to do. But keeping yourself active a few days a week can do great things for your body – and your feet. Get your blood flowing and your heart pumping with gentle exercises, like walking or bike riding. Working out is helpful for poor circulation. Make sure that you wear a comfy pair of sneakers to avoid any further pain.

Worried about your feet as an athlete? Call our office today and ask about it. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, Dr. Anne-Louise Smith, Dr. Justin Muser, and the rest of the staff at Syracuse Podiatry in East Syracuse, New York, can help treat and care for your feet. Call us at 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online to get help today.