It is the season of renewal, which makes it the perfect time to refresh your health habits. If you are living with diabetes, your feet need a little extra love during this seasonal transition. Between the rising temperatures and the urge to be more active, your feet face new challenges that they did not have during the cold winter months. Keep reading to see what we at Syracuse Podiatry have in mind for this spring’s diabetic foot care.

Inspect Your Footwear for Winter Wear and Tear

Before you head out for a long walk in the park, take a close look at your shoes. Winter can be brutal on footwear, and worn-out soles or cracked linings can cause blisters or sores.

Check inside your shoes for any small pebbles, torn seams, or rough spots that might irritate your skin. If your favorite walking shoes have lost their support or the tread is gone, spring is the best time to invest in a new pair that offers plenty of room for your toes and excellent cushioning.

Avoid Going Barefoot

As the grass gets green and the patios get warm, it is incredibly tempting to kick off your shoes and feel the earth. However, for anyone managing diabetes, going barefoot is a major risk. For example, you might have some degree of neuropathy, which means you could step on a sharp twig, a piece of glass, or even a hot surface without feeling it.

This can lead to a wound that is difficult to heal or an infection that goes unnoticed. So always wear shoes, even when you are just stepping out to the mailbox or lounging by the pool.

Keep Your Feet Dry

Spring brings rain and humidity, and as you become more active, your feet will naturally sweat more.

Make it a habit to change your socks immediately if they get damp from a spring shower or a brisk workout. Keeping your skin dry is one of the best ways to prevent irritation and infection.

Have a Reliable Daily Foot Check Habit

The most important thing you can do this spring is to look at your feet every single day. Use a mirror to see the bottoms and check between every toe. You are looking for redness, swelling, or any new calluses.

If you see something unusual, do not wait until it hurts to call your podiatrist.

For advice related to any podiatric concerns you’re facing, the expert team at Syracuse Podiatry is here to help guide you. Contact us today so Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, and Dr. Nicholas Cronin can elevate your foot health and help your feet feel their best.