Foot Care for Patients with Diabetes By Dr. Andrew Carver

Introduction• A pioneering podiatric specialist, Dr. Andrew Carver was

one of the first practitioners to incorporate extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) into his practice. In addition to providing state-of-the-art treatments, Dr. Andrew Carver focuses on the basics of proper foot care with his patients, especially those who have diabetes.

People with diabetes typically have nerve damage and reduced blood flow to the extremities, and these impairments make them more vulnerable to developing foot ulcers that progress rapidly and often do not respond well to treatment. The best course of action is to prevent these sores from developing in the first place with diligent foot care.

Foot Care• At-home care for the feet starts with keeping blood

sugars stable. People should wash their feet gently every day with warm water and a mild soap and then pat them dry. A sprinkling of talcum powder between the toes will keep these areas dry, and a layer of lotion on the tops and bottoms of the feet prevents skin cracking. Patients should also inspect their feet daily for sores, cracks, blisters, swelling, or any other abnormalities. Toenails should be clipped straight across, and special care must be taken to avoid cutting the corners of the nails. Patients should also avoid going barefoot. To best protect feet from injury, people should wear socks made of natural fibers and shoes that cover the entire foot.

Conclusion

•Regular visits with a podiatrist are essential. Even when no problems are apparent, patients with diabetes should have their feet examined at least once a year. Patients who notice any foot abnormality, even if it’s a simple corn or a callus, must never attempt to treat it themselves. A foot specialist can remove the lesion in a manner that maximizes the patient’s chances of optimal healing.