Living with diabetes comes with many responsibilities, and it’s normal to feel worried about the potential complications. Diabetes affects circulation and nerve function, and your feet are especially vulnerable — but here’s the encouraging part: Most serious foot complications are preventable with the right care.
Our team at Legacy Foot & Ankle specializes in diabetic foot care in Bay City, Caro, Lapeer, and Rochester Hills, Michigan, and we offer personalized care to help you lower your risk. By establishing a simple daily routine and collaborating with your healthcare team, you can safeguard your feet, remain active, and prevent more severe foot problems.
Here are five of the best ways to keep your feet healthy and maintain your mobility.
Diabetes affects how your body processes blood sugar, and over time, it can damage nerves and blood vessels. That nerve damage (neuropathy) can cause you to lose feeling in your feet, and something like a small blister, cut, or sore can go unnoticed, worsen, and lead to more serious complications quickly.
One of the best ways to protect your foot health is to make a habit of inspecting your feet every day. Look for cuts, redness, swelling, blisters, or any changes in skin color or texture. Use a mirror or ask for help if you have trouble seeing the bottoms of your feet. Catching small issues early can prevent them from becoming larger, harder-to-treat wounds.
Shoes that don’t fit properly can easily cause blisters or pressure points that turn into sores. For people with diabetes, these seemingly small injuries can escalate quickly, and choosing shoes with plenty of support, cushioning, and room for your toes becomes even more important.
Avoid walking barefoot (even at home) to reduce your risk of cuts or injuries you may not feel right away. Your socks also matter, so choose seamless, moisture-wicking socks that help reduce friction and keep your feet dry.
Daily washing with warm (not hot) water helps keep your feet clean and reduces the risk of infection. Afterward, dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes.
After drying your feet, consider applying a gentle moisturizer to prevent dry, cracked skin. If you do use moisturizer, avoid putting it between your toes, since dampness can promote fungal infections.
Healthy blood flow helps your feet stay strong and heal faster if you do get an injury. Elevating your feet when sitting, avoiding crossing your legs for extended periods, and staying physically active can all support better circulation. If you regularly sit for long periods, take breaks to move around and stretch your legs.
If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do to improve your circulation and your overall health. Smoking narrows blood vessels and significantly increases the risk of foot complications in people with diabetes.
Even with the best home care, regular checkups with a podiatrist are essential when you have diabetes. Routine diabetic foot exams allow us to check for early signs of nerve damage, poor circulation, or wounds that may need attention.
These visits are also an opportunity to discuss any changes you’ve noticed and get professional guidance on footwear, skin care, and overall foot health. By making these exams a regular part of your diabetes management plan, you take an important step in protecting your long-term health and mobility.
At Legacy Foot & Ankle Center, we understand how important foot health is to your quality of life — especially when you’re managing diabetes. From preventive exams to advanced treatments, our team is here to help you keep your feet safe, strong, and healthy.
This National Diabetes Month, commit to prioritizing your foot care and book your next diabetic foot exam at Legacy Foot & Ankle. Contact us to take the first step today.
