Why Diabetic Foot Care is So Important This Winter

Diabetic foot care is important at any time of year, but winter brings with it threats decreased circulation and numbness. Because November is Diabetes Awareness Month, today, Dr. Hubert Lee of CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists is spreading awareness by sharing some information regarding diabetic foot care in winter.

Winter cold, moisture, and dryness elevate the risk of diabetic foot issues. About 15 to 20 percent of diabetics seek treatment at a hospital because of an infection or foot ulcer, which leads to amputation in some cases.

These tips can help you care for your diabetic feet this winter:
Daily examination

Examine all the pressure points on your feet and in between your toes. Keep an eye out for discharge, changes in color or odor, painful corns or calluses, or breaks in the skin.

Make moisturizing a must

Poor circulation and nerve damage from diabetes can affect the moisturizing glands of your feet. Dry winter heat can worsen the dryness, so moisturize daily.

Proper footwear is key.

If you are diabetic, winter cold combined with diminished circulation can elevate your risk for developing a foot ulcer. Ensure that your winter footwear provides warmth, protection from the elements, and sufficient padding. Diabetic footwear is a great choice.

Free your feet from moisture.

Icy puddles or snow can lead to hazardously damp feet that can invite unwanted bacteria. When your feet get wet, dry them completely, including between your toes, and change out of your wet socks and shoes.

Trim your toenails with care.

Infected toenails or untrimmed toenails frequently cause ulcers and infections. Trim them correctly, which is straight across and not too short. If you have difficulty trimming them, get professional help from your podiatrist.

Don’t turn up the heat on your feet.

Always be careful when using hot soaks, heating pads, or electric blankets. And always check the water temperature before you stick your feet in.

Control your glucose levels.

Regulating your blood sugar is an important part of diabetic foot care. Your feet are one of the first places poor diabetic control appears. Work with your doctor to control your blood sugar.

If you are living with diabetes and haven’t seen a podiatrist in some time, contact the office of Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists to schedule a consultation. Call our office today at (425) 455-0936 to book your visit or schedule an appointment online.

Author

Dr. Hubert Lee

You Might Also Enjoy...

hand rubbing foot with pain

6 Ways to Soothe Your Arthritic Foot Pain

If you live with arthritis, chances are you feel the painful effects in your feet. Because May is Arthritis Awareness Month, Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, is sharing a way to heal your foot pain.

a mole on the back of a foot, at top of the heel

Melanoma and Your Feet: What You Need to Know

Because May 3 is known as Melanoma Monday, today Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA is sharing what you need to know about melanoma and your feet.

young child walking, pediatric foot care

3 Common Pediatric Foot and Ankle Conditions: What to Look For

You should familiarize yourself with some of the most common pediatric foot and ankle issues so you can take the proper steps to prevent them from happening. Today, Dr. Hubert Lee shares his expert guidance.

feet in sneakers, running, running injury prevention

Heading Outside to Run? Here’s How to Prevent Running Injuries!

Research shows that a large percentage of runners suffer injuries every year. This can be caused by not warming up or cooling down properly after a run, or it may be the result of wearing shoes that don’t fit properly.

group of people walking outdoors on grass

6 Tips for National Foot Health Awareness Month!

April has been designated National Foot Health Awareness Month. Almost every action you take involves your feet, so keeping them healthy, pain-free, and active is our number one goal.

hand holding magnifying glass over bottom of foot

For Diabetics: Your Springtime Foot Guide (7 Tips)

Springtime presents even more circumstances in which those with diabetes have to take super special care of their feet. Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, is sharing 7 tips for diabetics.