Located in Naples, FL | 239-263-4595
Diabetic Foot Care Tips
Important Foot Care Tips for Patients
Take Good Care of Your Feet
If you suffer from diabetes, it's extremely important to take good care of your feet to prevent dangerous infections and eventual amputations. Daily foot inspections are vital in treating your condition.
For your convenience – and based on more than 34 years of experience – we have included some professional recommendations for diabetic foot care. To learn more, call 239-263-4595 today.
Warning Signs of Diabetic Foot Problems
• Bumps, lumps, blisters, or bruises
• Cuts, sores, or cracked skin – even the tiniest crack can become infected
• Patches of thin or shiny skin (can signal lack of blood flow) or areas of redness (especially red streaks, which can signal the presence of infection)
• Temperature differences (one part warm, another cold) can signal lack of blood flow
• Pain, tingling, numbness, or no feeling at all are signs of nerve problems
• Ingrown toenails with red, puffy skin along the nail and tenderness or pain
• Loss of hair on foot or leg, which also can signal reduced blood flow
• Patches of thin or shiny skin (can signal lack of blood flow) or areas of redness (especially red streaks, which can signal the presence of infection)
• Temperature differences (one part warm, another cold) can signal lack of blood flow
• Pain, tingling, numbness, or no feeling at all are signs of nerve problems
• Ingrown toenails with red, puffy skin along the nail and tenderness or pain
• Loss of hair on foot or leg, which also can signal reduced blood flow
Additional Suggestions
If you have numbness, tingling, or loss of feeling in your feet, be extra cautious. Make sure there are no sharp objects such as broken glass, nails, or exposed sharp edges on the floor or in carpeting. Never walk or move around barefoot, even in your house.
Wash feet daily in lukewarm water, never hot. Use your elbow to test the water temperature. After washing, dry feet thoroughly and keep them supple by applying lotion only to the tops and bottoms. Don’t apply lotion between the toes since this can create a moist environment for fungal growth.
Don't cut your own toenails if you have neuropathy or other foot problems related to diabetes. Never attempt to cut or file calluses or other protrusions on your feet. See a podiatrist or a foot care nurse regularly for toenail care and foot examinations.
Call for an Appointment With Our Podiatrist
239-263-4595