Current diabetes trends show that by 2050 nearly 1 out of 3 American adults will have a diabetes diagnosis.  A staggering 60% of the non-traumatic lower limb amputations are performed on diabetics.1  Keeping your feet healthy is only one challenge diabetics face.  Simple actions can help reduce the risk of major complications such as gangrene, limb amputation or diabetic ulcers.

  • Get your body moving. Walking, swimming, dancing, any exercise improves circulation and helps with weight maintenance. Where proper athletic shoes to avoid foot injuries.
  • Daily feet inspections. T.L.S., Touch. Look, Smell your feet and toes daily.  Be observant of cuts, sores, calluses, bruises, or ingrown toenails.  Foot odor may be a sign of an infection.  See a podiatrist if you notice any problems.
  • Lather up.  Use lotion on your feet to minimize dry, cracked skin and assist with your feet inspections.  Avoid lathering between the toes, lotion between the toes can cause bacterial growth.2
  • Don't dare go bare.  Barefoot is a NO...NO for diabetics.  Don't go without shoes, even in your own home. The risk of cuts and infection is too great for those with diabetes.
  • Wear soft socks. Diabetic socks or seamless socks are best to avoid friction which could cause blisters.
  • Well fitted shoes.  Buy shoes that are sized properly and made of premium construction.  Shoes designed for diabetics are available online and thru your physician.
  • Always have a doctor or trained nurse remove calluses, corns, or warts.
  • Podiatrist, podiatrist, podiatrist.  It can't be said enough how important regular checkups by a podiatrist are for keeping your feet safe and healthy.  Incorporating a podiatrist in your "care team" can assist in reducing the risk of lower limb amputation.2

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1.  http://professional.diabetes.org/admin/UserFiles/0%20-%20Sean/Documents/Fast_Facts_3-2015.pdf

2.  https://diabetesatwork.org/_files/factsheets/ii_b_02_fs.pdf

3.  http://www.apma.org/Learn/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=980