How To Manage Symptoms of Diabetic Feet

When you have high glucose levels, you are more likely to develop foot diseases such as diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease. These conditions may cause numbness, pain, tingling, increased risk of infections, and slow-healing injuries.

Aside from the discomfort, diabetic foot problems can also affect your daily life, as they may prevent proper stability and functionality of your feet. So, it’s best to learn how to manage and ease these symptoms. Here are some tips to help you:

Check Your Feet Daily

When you have diabetes, you may experience numbness in your feet, which prevents you from feeling cuts or scratches. So, it’s crucial to inspect them every day. If you do so, you can treat your feet immediately and prevent potential infections from occurring. It would be best if you also looked out for blisters, ingrown toenails, or any signs of swelling, redness, or sore spots. If you find any, talk to your foot doctor.

Wear Proper Footwear

Choosing the right well-fitting footwear lessens the risk of blisters and calluses forming on your feet. So, it’s best to do a foot measurement on your own or with the help of a professional whenever you’re buying new shoes. You should also avoid wearing high heels or pointed shoes since they may put excess strain on the front of your feet.

Monitor Your Blood Sugar

Since high glucose levels are the main reason for diabetic foot issues, keeping them under control is essential. You can do so by maintaining a healthy diet, checking your blood sugar, and taking the necessary medications prescribed by your doctor.

Exercise Regularly

Staying active is greatly beneficial if you have diabetes. Doing so helps improve blood circulation and control your blood sugar levels, easing pain caused by a foot disease. You may start with a regular walking routine or consult your podiatrist on the best form of exercise for your condition.

Stop Smoking

Among the negative effects of smoking is poor blood circulation, which can increase your risk of diabetic foot disease. So, it’s best to break the habit as early as possible if you are a smoker. If you find it difficult, consider a tobacco cessation program.

Consult a Foot Doctor Near You

Now that you know about these tips, you can prevent symptoms of diabetic foot problems from worsening. If you experience unusual pain or want a professional assessment, reach out to Thomas Podiatry & Associates in Salisbury, MD. Our physicians will gladly assist you with your diabetic foot care needs.