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Diabetic Foot Care Manual

Comprehensive guide for managing diabetic foot health and preventing complications.

Diabetes Management • Prevention • Daily Care • Emergency Signs

Why Diabetes Affects Your Feet

Diabetes can significantly impact foot health through three main mechanisms: neuropathy (nerve damage), poor circulation, and impaired immune function. These factors increase the risk of foot ulcers, infections, and potentially amputation. However, with proper care and vigilance, most diabetic foot complications can be prevented.

This comprehensive manual provides essential information for managing diabetic foot health, with daily care routines and warning signs to watch for.

Critical Statistics

  • • 1 in 4 people with diabetes will develop foot problems
  • • Foot ulcers precede 85% of diabetes-related amputations
  • • Early intervention can prevent 50-80% of amputations
  • • Daily foot checks can reduce amputation risk by 50%

Daily Foot Inspection Routine

Daily foot checks are the most important preventive measure for diabetic foot care. Since neuropathy can mask pain, visual inspection is crucial.

Morning Check

  1. 1Check skin color and temperature
  2. 2Look for redness, swelling, or cuts
  3. 3Check between toes for moisture or sores
  4. 4Feel for unusual warmth or coolness

Evening Check

  1. 1Inspect shoes for foreign objects
  2. 2Check for blisters or pressure points
  3. 3Look for drainage or odor
  4. 4Document any changes for your doctor

Daily Hygiene and Care

Foot Washing

  • Use lukewarm water (test with elbow first)
  • Mild, fragrance-free soap only
  • Dry thoroughly, especially between toes
  • Apply moisturizer to prevent cracking

Nail Care

  • Cut straight across, never at corners
  • File rough edges gently
  • See a podiatrist for thickened nails
  • Never cut cuticles or use sharp instruments

Proper Footwear and Protection

Diabetic feet need extra protection. Ill-fitting shoes are a leading cause of ulcers.

Shoe Selection

  • • Try shoes on with diabetic socks
  • • Ensure 1/2 inch toe room
  • • Break in new shoes gradually
  • • Replace shoes every 6-12 months

Protective Measures

  • • Wear seamless socks daily
  • • Use padding for pressure points
  • • Avoid going barefoot
  • • Check shoes before wearing

Blood Sugar and Circulation

Good blood sugar control is essential for foot health and wound healing.

Monitoring

  • • Check blood sugar as directed
  • • Keep HbA1c under 7%
  • • Report any changes to your doctor
  • • Track your numbers

Lifestyle Factors

  • • Maintain healthy weight
  • • Exercise regularly (with doctor's approval)
  • • Eat balanced meals
  • • Stay hydrated

🚨 Emergency Warning Signs

Call your podiatrist or go to the emergency room immediately if you notice:

Severe Symptoms

  • • Open sores or ulcers
  • • Redness that spreads quickly
  • • Pus or foul-smelling drainage
  • • Fever over 101°F
  • • Severe pain or swelling
  • • Black or dead tissue

Concerning Changes

  • • Increased warmth in foot
  • • Cuts that don't heal in 2 weeks
  • • Corns or calluses that change
  • • Numbness or tingling
  • • Changes in foot shape
  • • Difficulty walking

Regular Podiatric Care Schedule

📅

Annual Check-ups

Comprehensive foot examination to assess nerve function, circulation, and overall foot health.

🔄

Every 3-6 Months

Regular monitoring for patients with neuropathy, poor circulation, or history of foot problems.

As Needed

Immediate evaluation for any new symptoms, injuries, or changes in foot health.

Download the Diabetic Foot Care Manual

Get your comprehensive PDF guide with illustrated checklists, emergency contact information, and additional resources for managing diabetic foot health.

PDF version with illustrations and checklists will be available soon.

Specialized Diabetic Foot Care at ASG

Our podiatrists specialize in diabetic foot care with advanced treatments to prevent complications. Don't wait for problems to develop - schedule your diabetic foot evaluation today.