Approximately 34 million adults and children have diabetes in America. November is National Diabetes Month and a great time to focus on this disease that can seriously impact the health of your feet. The most common form of the disease is Type 2 diabetes, and in patients with this disorder, the body doesn’t use insulin properly. Controlling your blood sugar levels is important to avoid complications associated with diabetes. Two complications that affect your feet are poor circulation and neuropathy. Decreased circulation means the blood supply to your legs and feet is restricted, making it more difficult for wounds and ulcers to heal. This in turn can lead to infection and, worst-case scenario, amputation. Neuropathy makes this risk even higher because nerve damage can prevent you from perceiving pain, heat, and other sensations that would signal an injury or other condition and prevent you from seeking treatment before it becomes serious.

Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to control diabetes and protect your feet. Below are ten tips to help:

Schedule regular podiatrist appointments. The foot doctor will monitor the health of your feet. He or she will look for any signs that an infection is developing or any other problems that may increase your risk of injury.
Get in the habit of inspecting your feet daily. Report anything suspicious or concerning to the foot doctor promptly.
Don’t smoke. Smoking impedes circulation, something that is already at risk with diabetes.
Eat a healthy diet. Talk to your physician about your food choices. Having diabetes doesn’t mean you have to say “goodbye” to the foods you love. Work with a nutritionist to develop a plan custom-tailored for you.
Exercise regularly. Physical activity enables your body to use insulin more effectively. It also improves circulation and helps you maintain a healthy weight.
Keep feet covered. Even at home, it’s best to wear shoes. If you have neuropathy, you are more likely to get a cut or puncture wound on the bottom of your feet and not notice it.
Make sure feet stay dry. Feet that spend long periods in damp socks and closed in shoes are more susceptible to fungal infections. If you perspire excessively, keep an extra pair of clean socks handy and change as soon as you notice they feel damp.
Take care of trimming toenails. Make sure they are cut straight across with no curved edges. Ask your podiatrist for help with this task.
Practice good hygiene. Wash feet daily with soap and warm (not hot) water.
Choose shoes wisely. Styles you wear should have roomy, wide toe boxes and not rub or pinch your feet anywhere. Avoid shoes made of very stiff materials.

We are your partner in managing your diabetes. Working together, you can maximize your control over this disease and minimize the risk of harm to your feet. Give us a call at (973) 256-3919 to take control now.