November is Diabetes Awareness Month. According to the CDC website, more than 37 million people in the United States have diabetes, and 1 in 5 of them don’t know they have it. 96 million US adults - over a third - have prediabetes, and more than 8 in 10 of them don’t know they have it. Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the United States and may be underreported.
Diabetes affects every part of your body and has a direct impact on your foot health.
If you have been managing your diabetes for a long time or are newly diagnosed, here are my tips for keeping your feet healthy and happy.
Shake out your shoes before putting shoes on. Diabetics lose sensation in their feet as the disease progresses. You would be surprised what ends up in your shoes. Debris from the garden, dog kibble, and sewing needles can cause serious wounds and infections, especially in the toes.
Wear shoes with socks. Socks provide a barrier for the skin and minimize friction which causes blisters. They help wick moisture away from your skin and keep your feet dry. Socks can help regulate the temperature inside your shoes and reduce the amount of sweat your feet produce.
Get your feet measured when buying new shoes. Most men over the age of 60 are wearing shoes that are a full size too small for them. Your feet get larger over time. If you have hammer toes or bunions buy shoes with a wide deep toe box.
Check your feet every day. Look for blisters, excessively dry skin and signs of infection such as redness or pain. If you have trouble bending to look at the bottom of your feet use a hand mirror or ask your partner to look at them.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Apply a diabetic friendly moisturizing lotion daily after a shower. We suggest products like Amlactin and Gold Bond for diabetics to your feet. We also like Podoexpert Foam with Urea because it absorbs into the skin quickly. When you consistently apply moisturizer and feel your feet daily you will be more aware when something does not feel right. Pay close attention to the heels as they have a tendency to crack.
Walk for exercise. We recommend walking at least 30 minutes a day 5 to 7 days a week. If you can't walk 30 minutes, walk 15 minutes twice daily. Walking will help regulate your blood sugar and improve circulation to your feet and legs.
If something does not look right, call your doctor. Please don't wait to see if an infected toenail or wound will go away on its own. Most infected ingrown toenails need a procedure to be treated. Wounds can get infected rapidly. Something that seemed like nothing can turn into something very quickly. Seeing a podiatrist sooner rather than later can help you avoid a trip to the ER or an extended stay in the hospital.
If you are diabetic, invested in your health, and looking to stay active, let Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center work with you. Contact us at 207-774-0028.
