How to Look After Diabetic Feet
When living with diabetes, caring for your feet can sometimes become an afterthought. Here is a list of things to be aware of, to help you keep on top of your foot care:
Make an Appointment with Us for a Diabetic Foot Assessment
Here at Gosforth Physio, we have qualified staff that can provide a comprehensive diabetic foot assessment for you, so you can leave knowing exactly how to care for your feet.
Check Your Feet
Check your feet everyday for warning signs. These could include;
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain
- Change to shape of feet
- Damage to the skin
- Build up of hard skin
Make an appointment if you are diabetic and showing any of these signs. Leave the Hard Stuff to Us
Do not attempt to remove or cut off any hard skin, corns or verrucae etc by yourself. This could cause skin and foot damage if done incorrectly. Always seek professional help when dealing with any foot ailments. These are all procedures that can be done at our clinic by one of our trained professionals.
Wear Shoes That Fit You Well
This really goes for everyone – but as diabetic people are more at risk for damage to the feet it’s always safer to wear supportive and protective shoes, avoiding bare feet and going sockless while wearing shoes if possible.
Keeping Toenails Maintained
Always try to ensure you are trimming your toenails regularly. Do not; -Trim them too far so that it irritates your toe skin -Don’t trim them down the sides, as this can lead to ingrown toenails If you have difficulty with your foot care – make an appointment with us and we help you with your needs.
Try to Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Cut back or stop smoking, drink alcohol in moderation and uphold a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Manage Your Glucose Control
Looking after your glucose levels is always important for diabetic patients but it is incredibly important to keep the nerves and blood vessels that serve the foot healthy. Here at Gosforth Physio we can help provide you with the vital care your feet need and give specialist advice to help answer any questions you might have. To book an appointment with us call: 0191 284 9111 Or Email: wellness@gosforthphysio.co.uk
