10 Steps to Better Foot Care for Diabetics
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Taking care of your feet is really important when you have diabetes. Why? Because diabetes can cause nerve damage and make it hard to feel cuts or blisters, which can lead to bigger problems if not treated. But don’t worry, here are some easy tips to keep your feet healthy! If you need extra help, we’re here for you. Simply self enroll for medication support, you can also call us at (410) 348-1905 or send us an email.
Start Your Day Right
1. Daily Foot Wash: Kickstart your day by washing your feet with warm water and soap. Dry them well, especially between your toes.
2. Moisturize: Treat your feet to some lotion love! Keep them soft by applying lotion to the tops and bottoms, but skip between the toes.
3. Daily Foot Check: Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. It’s best to do this with a mirror! There are even foot mirrors that are made to help inspect the bottoms of your feet. American Diabetes Association has a guide to checking your feet
4. Trim Toenails: Keep those toenails in check by trimming them straight across and smoothing the edges with a nail file. Don’t cut those cuticles.
You can use products you already have or you can buy Diabetic Foot Care Kits online and in pharmacies. These kits typically include mild soap, moisturizing lotions specifically for diabetics, and tools for nail care.
Smart Planning and Routine
5. Provider Visits: Ask your provider to check your feet each visit.
6. Professional Help: Have a corn or callus? "If you need help finding a podiatrist check with your health plan." Can also add a Scene Health can help comment if you want.
Protect Your Feet on the Go
7. Shoes and Socks: Always wear shoes and socks, even at home. Treat yourself to comfy, well-fitting shoes with plenty of room for your toes.
8. Foot-Friendly Fashion: Avoid shoes that expose your feet like sandals or clogs. Also, your health plan might cover therapeutic shoes if you have diabetes. These shoes are medically necessary to prevent issues like ulcers and infections. Ask your health plan for more information or ask your health coaches at Scene Health and they can help you with that
9. Keep Moving: Stay active by walking often. It’s great for blood flow.
10. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin and body hydrated.
When to Call the Provider
Important Signs: If you notice any of these, call your provider:
- A fever, chills, or a wound that won't heal
- Swelling, redness, or warmth around a wound
- Unusual pain, numbness, or tingling
- New sores, corns, or calluses
- Very dry or cracked skin
- Changes in the shape of your foot
By following these simple tips, you can keep your feet healthy and happy. Apps like MySugr and Glucose Buddy can help monitor symptoms and keep in touch with healthcare providers, or you can reach out to your care team at Scene Health through the app to get further support!
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