When you have diabetes, blood glucose levels in your body increase to high levels. Over time, the body loses the ability fight infections effectively, and other complications such as nerve damage (neuropathy), poor circulation, ulcers, and calluses may develop, especially in the feet. These conditions can worsen quickly due to slow healing, and may become severely infected, at times enough to require amputation. Therefore, preventative care is extremely important for diabetics, starting with regular appointments with a podiatrist who can help manage and treat any diabetes-related condition.

  • Daily foot inspections – Neuropathy causes numbness, so sometimes you may not realize when you develop an injury. Even the smallest cut or blister can become infected, so incorporating daily checks into your routine will keep you aware of your foot condition.
  • Keep your feet clean – Dry your feet carefully, especially between the toes
  • Moisturize your skin – Moisturize to avoid dry cracked skin, but avoid the areas between the toes
  • Wear properly-fitting shoes – Always wear shoes to protect your feet and do not walk barefoot. Ask about finding special diabetic shoes.
  • Exercise – Taking care of your fitness is important in maintaining good health. Make sure to wear proper footwear!
  • Keep toenails clean – Cut your toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Avoid extreme temperatures – Neuropathy causes numbness, so you can burn your feet without realizing.
  • See a podiatrist for treatment when you notice a callus, corn, blister, or any other skin problem.

Although diabetes is treatable, it can be very stressful to try to manage it on your own. Having an experienced, compassionate foot care specialist can be helpful in providing you with the care you need. At Podiatry Center of New Jersey, Dr. Russell Samofal provides patients in Wayne and Passaic Counties with high quality foot and ankle care in a comfortable and healing setting. Dr. Samofal is board certified, and specializes in reconstructive surgery and diabetic foot care, so he can treat everything from ankle injuries and heel pain to diabetic neuropathy. To make an appointment, call our Wayne office at (973) 925-4111 or schedule an appointment here.