Diabetic Foot Care Tips That Don't Cost Anything
When you're a diabetic, it's really important to take good care of your feet. If you don't care for your feet well and you develop a wound, that wound could easily become infected or necrotic, leading to serious damage. Proper diabetic foot care does include wearing well-fitting shoes and the right socks. However, there are also some diabetic foot care tips that don't cost you anything to follow.
Wash and dry your feet daily.
Technically this one does cost a tiny bit if you pay your own water bill. However, the cost is negligible. Washing and drying your feet daily will help prevent bacterial and fungal infections. It also gets rid of any sweat, which can help prevent blisters and abrasions. The best time to wash your feet is as soon as you get home. Take off your shoes, put some water in the tub, and soap up your feet. Rinse them with cool water, and pat them dry.
Take breaks when walking and standing.
When walking and standing, make sure you don't spend too many endless hours on your feet. Take a break every hour, or maybe even every half hour if you find your feet feeling tired. Taking breaks often helps keep your feet from swelling when you're on them all day. And if you can keep your feet from swelling, you'll reduce your risk of developing the blisters and abrasions that can be so dangerous for diabetics.
Trim your nails more often.
The more often you trim your nails, the less likely they are to start rubbing on your shoes and causing discomfort. Trimming your nails more often also helps prevent ingrown nails, which can be really dangerous for diabetics since they're so likely to become infected. Many people do well trimming their nails once a week, but you may be able to do yours every week and a half if your nails grow more slowly.
Check your feet daily.
Always look your feet over thoroughly each day. You can do this as you wash and dry them. If you do develop any sores or other issues, seeing the doctor ASAP will help keep those conditions from worsening.
As a diabetic, you need to be really protective of your feet. Following the tips above will get you off to the right start. Also talk to a doctor from a place like Marlboro Podiatry Center Inc about other steps you can take for healthier, happier feet as a diabetic.
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