Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.
Skip to main content

4 Ways to Care for Your Feet When You Have Diabetes

4 Ways to Care for Your Feet with Diabetes

Diabetes can significantly impact your health, but your feet are one area you may not realize requires a little extra care. Over time, high blood sugar levels damage the nerves in your feet, leading to diabetic neuropathy, which can quickly become severe and cause numbness, tingling, or even loss of sensation in your feet. 

Nearly half of all diabetic adults have neuropathy, so we make diabetic foot care a key focus of our comprehensive services. We also prioritize equipping you with the tools to manage your foot health effectively. 

Here, Dr. Maurice Aiken and our team at Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists highlight four simple ways to care for your feet and keep them healthy.

1. Check your feet regularly 

Sometimes, the most basic interventions are the most effective — the most important thing you can do to care for your feet when you have diabetes is simply check them regularly. 

We recommend you inspect your feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. If you have trouble seeing the bottoms of your feet, use a mirror or ask someone to help you. If you notice any issues, you must address them right away. Even minor cuts or blisters can turn into severe infections if left untreated.

2. Wear comfortable shoes 

Choosing and wearing the right shoes is also essential for diabetic foot care. Make sure your shoes fit properly and provide enough support. Avoid shoes that are too tight or loose or have pointed toes. Look for shoes made from breathable materials and cushioned soles to help evenly distribute pressure on your feet and reduce stress points. 

Also, avoid walking barefoot, especially outside or on uneven surfaces, to prevent cuts or injuries.

3. Keep your feet clean and moisturized 

Another simple-but-effective tip for diabetic foot care — keep them clean and hydrated. Remember to wash your feet daily with warm water and gentle soap, and dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes, because moisture can cause infections. Apply lotion or cream to the tops and bottoms of your feet to moisturize them, but avoid putting them between your toes.

4. Visit a podiatrist regularly

You can do a lot to care for your feet when you have diabetes, but it's no substitute for our care and expertise. A podiatrist like Dr. Aiken, who specializes in foot and ankle care, can help you manage foot problems and provide guidance on proper foot care. 

If you have diabetes, we strongly recommend visiting us at least once a year, even if you don't have any issues, to ensure your feet remain healthy and to catch any potential problems early on.

Taking care of your feet is crucial when you have diabetes, and we can help you stay on track. Feel free to schedule an appointment online or over the phone at our Dunedin, Florida, office if you have any concerns about your feet or notice any issues.

You Might Also Enjoy...

My Toenail Fungus Is Embarrassing: Can You Help?

Summer's over, so you can get away with covering up your fungal nails, but that doesn't mean you stop feeling self-conscious. Fortunately, there's a way to quickly and discreetly clear up your nails. Keep reading to learn more. 

How ESWT Can Treat Your Chronic Plantar Fasciitis

Sick of mornings plagued by foot and heel pain? High-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is one of the best ways to find relief simply by helping your body help itself. We’ve got the details for you here.

5 Reasons to Consider Custom Orthotics

Sidelined by sore feet? You're not alone — and relief isn't as far away as you might think. Step into our office and into a pair of custom orthotics that your feet need to feel like themselves again. 

When to Seek Medical Treatment for Ankle Pain

Ankle pain may seem like something you can walk off, but a small problem could fester into a life-long ankle issue unless you're walking toward our office. Here’s some expert insight into when your bothersome ankle needs attention.

How Arthritis Can Change Your Gait

When you have foot arthritis, you might be grateful for even being able to take a step. But if you’re not walking correctly, you could unwittingly be causing additional damage. Read on to learn about the connection between arthritis and your gait.

3 Early Signs of Fungal Toenails

Fungal toenails are one of the most common foot problems and one of the easiest to treat if you catch it early. Here, we discuss three early signs of fungal toenails that you should watch out for.