Diabetics are at an increased risk for foot problems because the disease decreases blood flow to your feet and can cause nerve damage. If you have diabetes, you know that keeping your feet healthy all year long is critical for your overall health; but did you know that there are additional steps you should take in the summertime?
At Grassroots Healthcare in Tulsa, Oklahoma, our dedicated providers, uses a holistic approach to help you manage your diabetes naturally in order to avoid or minimize your need for pharmaceutical medications. Because diabetes is a leading cause of foot amputations, it’s crucial that you develop a foot care routine. In this blog, Grassroots outlines six ways you can protect and care for your feet this summer.
Hot pavement or warm sand can cause superficial burns that can become serious. Wear proper footwear that has a wide toe box and firm arch support, even in the summertime.
Look for anything that appears abnormal, such as cracks, dry skin, corns, blisters, and sores, so you can catch it early and keep it from progressing.
The hot summer weather can cause your skin to get dry. Keep them supplied with ample amounts of lotion to prevent dryness that leads to cracking or sores. Massaging the moisturizer into the tops and bottoms of your feet also helps increase your circulation.
It’s best to keep regular appointments with a pedicurist who specializes in diabetic foot care. It’s important to maintain short nails that are clipped in a manner that lowers your risk for ingrown toenails, which can lead to a problematic infection.
Summertime is hot and your feet can get sweaty, smelly, and moist, which can lead to athlete’s foot. Preventive steps you can take are to wear cotton socks and change them often, and take your shoes off when you’re at home in order to let your feet breathe.
Be vigilant about routine foot exams. At your regular checkup, your doctor looks for warning signs of a potential problem and customizes a plan for treatment before it worsens.
For a happy and healthy summer, tend your feet well. Call our office for any questions you have about diabetes and to schedule an appointment. You can also book online.
