If you’re living with diabetes, Dr. Sorelis Jimenez and Dr. John Fletcher at Foot Health Podiatry provide diabetic foot care in Manhattan, NY to minimize the risks to your feet.
How Diabetes Impacts the Feet
While foot problems can occur in anyone, those with diabetes are typically more susceptible. Diabetes raises sugar levels that damage the nerves and decrease the blood flow to the feet.
Damaged nerves mean that something can be going on in your feet and you do not even realize it. For example, if your shoe is causing a blister or you step on something sharp, you might not feel it. And if you don’t feel it, you don’t know to address it.
As blood flow is slowed, the body is not able to heal these wounds as it can in a body that’s not suffering from diabetes. Sadly, this can lead to serious infections that could eventually lead to the need for an amputation.
Steps to Diabetic Foot Care in Manhattan, NY
Diabetic foot care isn’t a complicated process. You’ll need to visit Dr. Jimenez or Dr. Fletcher Foot Health Podiatry at least yearly to get your feet thoroughly checked. Additionally, any time you go in for a regular medical check-up, let your primary care physician take a look.
You’ll also need to follow a few daily steps, such as those listed below:
- Wash and completely dry your feet every day.
- Moisturize the skin after you wash your feet, but do not put the lotion in between your toes.
- While you’re washing, drying, and moisturizing, take a good look at your feet. Check for any breaks in your skin, changes in your feet, any discoloration, or changes in sensation. Schedule a podiatry appointment if you notice anything.
- Trim your toenails regularly.
- Keep shoes and socks on your feet for protection.
- Take a few minutes twice or three times a day to elevate your feet and wiggle your toes. This will help improve blood flow.
- Avoid open-toed shoes or shoes that have a narrow toe box.
- Get your feet measured before buying each new pair to ensure you purchase shoes that are big enough.
If you’re in need of diabetic foot care in Manhattan, NY, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jimenez and Dr. Fletcher at Foot Health Podiatry by calling (212) 845-9991 today.