November is American Diabetes Month, and what better way to commemorate the occasion than with some simple yet essential advice for proper foot care when you have diabetes? The consequences of poorly managed diabetes can be quite severe, with horrible outcomes such as gangrene and possible amputation. However, with the proper care and a comprehensive treatment program developed with your foot doctor’s help, you can keep your feet healthy and infection-free! Here are five-foot care essentials that will help you maintain your optimum foot health.

Daily Foot Checks

Check your feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, blisters, etc. Peripheral nerve damage can make it hard to feel and notice damage or infections without a visual inspection.

Clean & Dry Your Feet Everyday

Wash and carefully dry your feet at least once a day to eliminate microbes and prevent infection and foot ulcers.

Wear Properly-Fitted And Supportive Shoes With Custom Orthotics

Wear comfortable and supportive shoes with a wide toe box and a deeper heel cup. Orthotic inserts and balance braces will help wounds heal and help prevent falls. Need help picking the right shoes? Here are four things to keep in mind:

Try shoes on at the end of the day when your feet are the most swollen.
Look for a spacious “toe box.”
Avoid heels, as they can put pressure on the ball of your foot!
Open-toed shoes make it easier for pebbles or debris to get into your shoe and rub against your feet, leading to blisters and cuts.

Lift Your Feet While You’re Laying

When resting, keeping your feet and lower legs above your heart will improve blood flow and help fluids drain.

Daily Exercise And Aerobics Can Help

Regular exercise will improve your circulation, lower your blood sugar, and improve your immune response.

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, Dr. Anant Joshi and his staff treat a range of conditions and are committed to providing results. We are conveniently located in Woodland Park and welcome our neighbors in Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. To schedule an appointment, contact his office at 973-256-0002.