Diabetes can affect your feet's blood and nerve supply which could result in complications and foot amputation. Your podiatrists at Total Foot and Ankle of Tampa Bay can help you with the proper diabetic foot care in Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills, Riverview, Valrico, and Sun City Center, FL, to prevent foot complications.

Wash Your Feet 

Maintaining proper foot hygiene is essential if you want healthy feet. Wash your feet daily with mild soap and dry fully with a towel. Don't forget to apply lotion to your feet to prevent cracks.

Routine Foot Inspection 

Check your feet thoroughly for injuries and abnormalities. Check daily and use a mirror to inspect hard-to-see areas. You can also ask for assistance during your foot examination. Have someone check your feet for swelling, redness, changes in skin color, and cuts.

Cut Your Toenails Straight Across 

Use toenail clippers to cut your toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails. Don't round the edges and avoid cutting your toenails aggressively. After trimming your toenails, you could use a nail file to reduce sharp edges which could cut your toes.

Always Wear Shoes

Your feet need the protection of shoes to reduce your chances of getting foot injuries. Simple cuts can progress to foot amputation because diabetes complicates the healing process. Avoid the temptation of walking barefoot in your home, garden, or on the beach.

Wear Proper Fitting Footwear 

Stay away from shoes that are too tight. Your shoes should have wiggle room for your toes. Shoes that are too snug can cause calluses, ingrown, toenails, and other forms of foot injuries.

When choosing shoes, give preference to shoes that are smooth on the inside without seams. The rough interior of some shoes can irritate your feet and cause injury. Also, remember to wear socks.

Routine Visits to Your Podiatrist 

Even when you give yourself the best diabetic foot care you still need to allow your podiatrist to take a look at least once a year. During your visit to the Total Foot and Ankle of Tampa Bay in Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills, Riverview, Valrico, and Sun City Center, FL, your podiatrist will look for signs of foot injuries. These visits allow your doctor to identify and treat foot problems before complications arise.

Protect your feet with proper diabetic foot care at Total Foot and Ankle of Tampa Bay in Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills, Riverview, Valrico, and Sun City Center, FL. Call (813) 788-3600, or (813) 633-5900 to schedule your consultation today.