Diabetes and foot care

Posted: 4/1/2015

If you have diabetes, it’s important to take care of your feet to prevent serious problems, like nerve damage.  Follow these tips to keep your feet healthy.

• Check your feet every day for cuts, red spots, blisters and swelling. Call your doctor if they don’t get better.
• Wash your feet in warm water and dry them carefully.
• Rub lotion on the tops and bottoms of your feet, but not between the toes.
• Keep your toenails short. 
• Never walk barefoot.  Wear shoes and socks at all times.
• Put your feet up when you are sitting and move your toes and ankles to keep your blood flowing. 
• Don’t smoke.
• Work with your doctor to keep your blood sugar in the right range for you. 

If you get any warning signs like tingling or burning in your feet, you lose feeling, or the color or shape of your foot changes, call your doctor right away.

A doctor can refer you to Parkland’s Diabetes Clinic. Call 214.266.4000 to make an appointment at a clinic near you.