Simple Winter Foot Care for Diabetics
For a diabetic, the winter months are a time when more attention than usual should be given to the feet. Reduced circulation due to cold weather is only part of the problem.
Diabetics are at risk for having reduced blood flow to the lower extremities. An otherwise minor injury, like a blister, can escalate into a serious wound. And winter time can be especially hazardous. One reason is, the feet are covered up for longer periods of time and aren't being checked as often as they should.
Diabetic patients should pull their shoes and socks off to look at their feet to make sure that their shoes aren't tight causing any kind of friction or rubbing. You would notice a reddened spot on the top of the toes or on the sides of the bones if this were the case. Also, you should be checking your heels as well.
Poor circulation can also lead to increased swelling and dryness of the feet. Cold weather exacerbates the problem by further reducing blood flow and by indirectly reducing exercise.
A lot of people in the winter have a tendency to be a little bit more sedentary. They're not walking around as much. They're sitting around their houses which will make their feet and ankles swell a little bit more than usual.
During this time of year, we see more burns on the feet of diabetics, from heating pads or hot water. Try to steer clear from the heating pads, the warming blankets and the hot footbath whirlpools. If you're going to do that, check the water with the elbows. You don't lose feeling in your elbows as you would with your fingers and toes.
Dry weather prompts some to use a moisturizer. But when the feet are covered by socks for long periods of time, athlete's foot becomes a problem. So an anti-fungal creme might be more appropriate, on the advice of your Podiatrist, Dr. Raymond A. DiPretoro, Jr..
And remember, if a sore on your foot does not begin to heal after a day or so, be sure to tell your Podiatrist at Advanced Foot & Ankle Center!
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