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It’s cold outside! In addition, while these frigid temperatures can be challenging for anyone’s foot health, the truth is that people with diabetes need to pay special attention to their feet. Today, Dr. Joel Segalman and Dr. Stephen Lazaroff at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC, would like to remind their patients who have diabetes that safeguarding your feet is more crucial than it is for most people - and that includes protection from the effects of winter.
Here are some cold-weather facts about caring for the diabetic feet from our expert podiatrists.
1. Wetness is not your friend. Trudging through Connecticut slush and snow creates a need for waterproof boots, at a minimum. If you don’t have any and your socks get damp or wet, get them dry as soon as you possibly can. Your wet feet are a breeding place for the bacteria the causes infection.
2. Be cautious when seeking warmth. When trying to warm your feet by a fire, with an electric blanket, in a hot bath or next to a space heater, be careful. If nerve damage compromises the feeling in your feet, you can easily suffer some serious burns.
3. Beware of cracks. Diabetic feet often don’t have enough natural moisture, and indoor heat can dry them up even more. Be diligent about examining your feet for any cracking. In addition, to avoid cracking in the first place, keep your skin smooth and supple by moisturizing them each day.
4. Proper footwear matters. During this cold, wet weather, protecting your feet becomes even more important. Be sure to wear well-fitting, supportive shoes or waterproof boots that have rugged, thick soles for proper traction.
5. Be sure to maintain frequent visits with your podiatrist. To up your odds of preventing a cold-weather foot problem from worsening, be sure to make and keep your regular appointments with your podiatrist. Proactive care for your feet is crucial during this time of year.
Our diabetic patients know that their feet are disposed to circulation and nerve damage issues, and this can make it difficult to see cracks, redness, irritation and other potential problems.
Taking these 5 facts to heart will help keep your diabetic feet safe all winter long. If you have any issues, call us right away! You can reach Dr. Joel Segalman and Dr. Stephen Lazaroff at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC at our Waterbury office at (203) 755-0489 or our Newton office by calling (203) 270-6724. You can also schedule an appointment online.