If you are a diabetic, you likely have at least some nerve and blood vessel damage in your feet. This means you can experience numbness in your feet and increase your risk of infection. It is very important to take extra good care of your feet to avoid any issues. Here are some helpful tips on how to take care of your feet when you are a diabetic:

Do not Go Barefoot in the House

While walking around barefoot in the house is not a big deal to most people, it can be quite risky for diabetics. If you step on something and get a cut or scrape, you may not notice it until you get an infection.

Think Twice Before Stepping in a Hot Tub

Relaxing in hot tubs might not be such a good idea if you are a diabetic. If you have nerve damage in your feet, you might not know if the water is too hot. Stepping into a hot tub that is too hot can lead to burns and blisters, increasing the risk of infection.

Choose Low-Impact Exercises

Regular physical activity is very good for your diabetes, but you have to be careful about the types of exercises you do. If you participate in high-impact workouts, such as running and dancing, it can be hard on your feet. It is safer to do low-impact activities, such as walking and swimming.

Don't Ignore Foot Issues

Whether they are calluses or bunions, you should not take foot issues lightly. If you leave them untreated for too long, it can cause infections. Once you notice something wrong with your feet, make an appointment to see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

Buy the Right Pair of Shoes

When you have diabetes, it is more important than ever to find the right pair of shoes for your feet. If your shoes don't fit your feet probably, it can increase the risk of infections, ulcers and other problems. Shoes that are designed specifically for diabetics have wider toe boxes and are made from soft leather. These shoes will feel comfortable on your feet and help you avoid pain and infections.

Taking care of your feet will take a little extra work, but it can be done. If you follow these helpful tips, you can have healthier feet. However, if you are still having issues with your feet, see a podiatrist soon. To learn more, contact someone like Pinker & Associates.

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