Taking care of your feet when you have diabetes already takes a lot of effort. Use the following tips to make sure your feet are in good shape this winter.

• Inspect your feet every day. The top and bottom of your feet, as well as between your toes should be checked for any cuts, redness, or other issues.
• Find shoes that fit you well; otherwise, this can lead to ulcers, corns, calluses, and blisters without you realizing. Your feet need to be able to breathe and have blood circulation, especially in the cold weather, where balance and warmth are key.
• Keep your feet warm and dry. While winter boots are usually meant to keep you warm and keep water out, it’s possible that your feet will get wet regardless, especially if you have to wade through many inches of snow. Wearing double socks may actually make your feet sweat and cause irritation or infection, so it’s best to check the dampness in your shoes. Use powder to remedy this.
• Check water temperatures so you don’t get burned. Also, be careful when warming your feet by heaters or fireplaces.
• Moisturize and keep toenails trimmed to maintain foot health. After showers or baths, dry your feet thoroughly and moisturize with lotion. Your toenails should remain short so that you do not have to worry about ingrown toenails or irritation.
• Keep active and control sugar levels. Just because it’s cold outside, you shouldn’t become sedentary. Find ways to stay active inside and outside so that you can keep your blood pumping and fluids circulating to your feet.

If you are worried about your diabetic feet, you should come see our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Carl Ingrassia. For further questions about these tips, make an appointment with us at Fords Foot and Ankle Care by calling (732) 738-4441. We are located in Fords, NJ, and are happy to take care of you and your family. We wish you and your family happy and healthy holidays!