Cold weather can bring challenges for everyone, but if you have diabetes, it’s particularly important to look after your feet. Here are some common winter diabetic foot care problems, together with advice on how to avoid them.
- Foot problems caused by lack of exercise
It can be hard to drag yourself outside when there’s ice and snow on the ground, but people with diabetes should maintain their usual exercise routines wherever possible.
- Exercise helps to maintain blood circulation and reduce numbness, making foot ulcers less likely. It will also help you to keep blood glucose levels under control.
- If conditions are too severe to get outside, you can still exercise indoors. Talk to your podiatrist for advice on a regimen that will keep your feet healthy.
- Infections from wet, cold feet
Especially if you have foot numbness that means you may not feel it, it’s all too easy to walk around with snow in your shoes – and that can lead to problems with bacterial or fungal infection. Keep your feet healthy by keeping them warm and dry.
- Always wear shoes that are waterproof and in good condition, but avoid footwear that isn’t breathable as this will likely make your feet sweaty.
- Be careful not to let your feet dry out completely. Using a good moisturizer every day will help keep your skin supple, as well as avoiding cracks that can let in infections.
- Skimping on inspections
Because people with diabetes are likely to have nerve damage in their feet, you can easily develop problems without being aware of discomfort until they become severe. Cold weather can make your numbness worse, so be especially careful in winter.
- Check your feet carefully every day, looking for any changes such as corns, calluses, or skin breaks. Also inspect your socks to see whether there are any stains from discharges.
- If you notice any problems that don’t clear up quickly, or if you’re concerned about something you find, see your podiatrist for professional advice on what to do.