Diabetic Foot Care
According to the American Diabetes Association, about 25.8 million children and adults in the United States—8.3% of the population—have diabetes . Diabetics are at an increased risk for developing foot problems. Uncontrolled blood sugar for several years can cause damage to nerves, blood vessels, tendons and ligaments. This places the diabetic patient at risk for developing ulcers, dry scaly skin, and changes to their foot structure. Diabetics must constantly monitor their feet for any changes or face possible amputation. If you have diabetes, you should inspect your feet every day. Look for bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, and nail discoloration.
The risk of developing a diabetic ulcer and possible amputation can be decreased with proper shoe wear.
We are authorized Medicare Suppliers to evaluate, prescribe and dispense high quality shoes and 3 pairs of removable protective shoe inserts per calendar year. Many diabetic patients qualify for this benefit and Medicare will pay 80% of the cost for the shoes and insoles and your supplemental insurance should pay the other 20%
To qualify for diabetic shoes Dr. Henderson conducts a Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Exam including:
- Vascular, Neurological, Dermatalogical, Orthopedic Exam
- Pressure measurement of feet
- Temperature reading of feet
- Diabetic glycemic review
- Overview of proper care for your feet.
All findings are discussed at the time of exam and sent to the primary care doctor. Please call office for an appointment and start wearing your new diabetic shoes today!
Here's some basic advice for taking care of diabetic feet:
- Always keep your feet warm and dry.
- Keep feet away from heat (heating pads, hot water pads, electric blankets, radiators, fireplaces).
- Don't smoke
- Don't soak your feet.
- Don't use antiseptic solutions (such as iodine or salicylic acid) or over-the-counter treatments for corns or calluses.
- Don't use any tape or sticky products, such as corn plasters, on your feet. They can rip your skin.
- Use quality lotion to keep the skin of your feet soft and moist, but don't put any lotion between your toes.
- Wash your feet every day with mild soap and warm water and keep them dry.
- Wear loose, warm socks to bed.
- Buy shoes that are comfortable without a "breaking-in" period. Check how your shoe fits in width, length, back, and sole.
- Never wear sandals or thongs (flip-flops) and never go barefoot, indoors or out.
- Don't file down, remove, or shave off corns or calluses yourself.
