If you suffer from diabetes, chances are you have an extended daily routine which includes testing your blood sugar, eating healthily, and leading an active and healthy lifestyle. Unfortunately, you may not realize that you should also take the health of your feet into consideration when performing simple daily tasks like putting on your shoes. Do you know how you should care for your feet as a diabetic? Find out with podiatrists Dr. George Tjamaloukas and Dr. Kathy Tjamaloukas at Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Center in Land O’ Lakes, FL.

Why is diabetic foot care important? 
An unfortunate side effect of diabetes is decreased blood flow in the extremities like the hands and feet. This decreased blood flow can cause numbness, which can, in turn, cause injuries or conditions to go unnoticed. This means that something as simple as a rock in your shoe can cause a cut, and if left untreated it can become infected and cause serious conditions like gangrene, which requires amputation. This makes daily foot care crucial to maintaining your foot and overall health.

How should I care for my feet? 
Give your feet the once-over every morning and every night, taking into account any new bruises, irritations, cuts, scrapes, or other abnormalities. Ensure that your feet remain clean and dry and wear fresh socks every day. While cutting your toenails, make sure that you cut them straight across to decrease the risk of ingrown toenails. Always shake your shoes out before you put them on to ensure that there are no stray rocks or other debris which could cause damage to your feet.

Foot Examinations in Land O’ Lakes, FL 
If you have diabetes, you could benefit from a foot examination with your podiatrist. The examination itself will include a physical exam where your doctor will examine the feet and, if necessary, use x-rays or MRIs to examine their bones and connective tissues. For more information on caring for your feet, please contact Dr. George Tjamaloukas and Dr. Kathy Tjamaloukas at Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Center in Land O’ Lakes, FL. Call (813) 909-0865 to schedule your appointment with your podiatrist today!