How can I reduce my risk of diabetes-related foot pain?
How can I reduce my risk of diabetes-related foot pain?
To avoid hyperglycemia and diabetes-related neuropathy, you should control blood sugar carefully.
You can also reduce the risk of diabetes-related foot problems by:
- Checking your feet every day for any changes. Don’t forget to look between your toes. Ask someone for help or use a mirror if needed.
- Getting your feet checked at every visit with a healthcare provider.
- Keeping your toenails trimmed and filed. Cut them straight across to prevent ingrown toenails.
- Maintaining blood flow to the feet. For example, keep your feet elevated when you sit, and wiggle your toes often. Stay active, but choose activities that are gentler on the feet, such as walking or swimming.
- Putting cornstarch or talcum powder between the toes to prevent moisture buildup.
- Smoothing any corns or calluses.
- Wearing socks and shoes (or slippers) all day. Make sure your socks aren’t too tight and that your shoes fit properly. Some people with diabetes wear therapeutic shoes or shoe inserts to help prevent wounds or sores.
- Washing your feet every day in warm water, not hot. Dry them thoroughly afterward, including between the toes. Then apply lotion to the tops and bottoms of the feet, but not between the toes.
It’s just as important to avoid certain things. Don’t:
- Cut calluses or corns or apply chemicals.
- Smoke.
- Soak your feet.
- Walk around barefoot.
- Wear tight socks or shoes.