We’re emphasizing diabetes treatment this November in awareness of American Diabetes Month. Complications of poorly treated diabetes can lead to severe consequences when it comes to the health of your feet. The nerve damage diabetes can cause leads to foot numbness and the possibility of a severe, unnoticed infection spreading that can lead to amputation. Proper foot care and regular visits with your podiatrist can avoid these issues.

4 essential aspects of your diabetic foot care regimen include the following:

1. Carefully inspect your feet every day—Check your entire foot and if you have trouble seeing all the areas of the foot, use a mirror to inspect the bottoms. Also, check between the toes for cracks and infections since problems start in these hidden areas.
2. Keep your feet as clean and dry as possible—Clean your feet at least once daily and dry them carefully, especially between the toes, to help avoid microbial infections.
3. Trim your toenails and treat corns and calluses carefully—Always be careful when cutting your toenails or treating skin conditions like corns and calluses to avoid cuts or scratches. Have these tasks performed at your foot doctor’s office to help prevent any accidents.
4. Wear properly fitted shoes and orthotics—Specially made footwear and custom orthotic inserts can help isolate wounds and take the stress off your feet and ankles to avoid injury and allow healing to occur.

Making a comprehensive plan with your foot doctor to treat and prevent diabetic foot issues is an excellent proactive strategy to avoid future problems.

If you have pain from any injury or have any concerns about your foot and ankle health, make an appointment with Alta Ridge Foot Specialists at one of our three offices at 105 Chestnut Street, Mars Hill, or 440 Alta Pass Highway, Spruce Pine, or 2211 NC Hwy 105, Boone NC. We are a proud member of the Instride Foot and Ankle Partnership, a statewide partnership of doctors dedicated to providing state-of-the-art care to our patients. Dr. W. Aaron Broyles, Dr. Robert L. Van Brederode, Dr. Thomas Verla, and their staff look forward to serving you. Contact us today!