Reduction of Your Ankle Fracture: What to Expect
An ankle fracture is typically quite painful, especially when the bones move out of alignment. Learn more about the reduction for an ankle fracture and what to expect during and after.
Diabetic? 5 Ways to Protect Your Feet This Holiday Season
Diabetes and foot issues go together, especially in people with uncontrolled blood glucose levels. High blood sugar damages the nerves and blood vessels in the legs and feet, making it difficult to tell if you have an injury or open wound.
Checking your feet daily is an essential part of managing diabetes, especially when the cold weather rolls in. The holidays are a busy time, but you should still be checking your feet to ensure they're healthy.
At the Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio, Dr. Marque A. Allen provides foot care for people with diabetes. He's an experienced foot and ankle surgeon who treats conditions such as ankle sprains, bunions, and foot sprains.
Diabetes and your feet
Diabetes is a chronic medical problem that causes issues regulating blood glucose levels. Your body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can't properly use the insulin it does make.
High blood sugar can cause various issues throughout the body, especially in the legs and feet. It damages nerves, leading to neuropathy and decreased sensation in the feet. Diabetes also causes blood vessel damage, which impairs circulation to the extremities and increases your risk of infection.
People with diabetes have trouble feeling their feet and legs, which poses a risk for injury. They don't always feel a stone in their shoes or a cut, which could end up in a nonhealing wound or diabetic ulcer.
With the colder months approaching, it's essential to know how to take care of your feet so you can enjoy all the holiday festivities.
Protecting your feet during the holidays
Protecting your feet during the busy holiday season is crucial to enjoying all the festivities. We offer the following tips to keep your feet healthy during the busy holidays:
1. Wear warm, dry socks
Warm socks are an essential part of winter for people with diabetes. Choose wool or cotton blends without seams to keep your feet warm and dry. Moisture-wicking socks are the best option to prevent issues.
2. Avoid direct heat
During the cold winter months, it's tempting to cuddle up with an electric blanket or heating pad to keep your feet warm – but that's not a good idea. Putting heat directly on your feet can lead to burns when you have neuropathy.
3. Wear warm, insulated shoes
The proper winter shoes help keep your feet warm and safe when traveling or working out in the cold. Choose shoes with soft insulation that fit well with heavy socks. Make sure to shake out your shoes before putting your feet inside.
4. Moisturize your feet daily
The holidays usually mean cold winter weather, which dries out the skin. After bathing, use a good moisturizer daily on your feet to help prevent cracking and keep them from drying out enough to cause a blister or ulcer.
5. Keep your feet dry
Snow and winter activities may cause your feet to sweat during the holiday season, which isn't suitable for those with diabetes. Ensure you dry your feet off as soon as you get home and keep them dry. Put on fresh dry socks and moisturize if necessary.
What else can I do for my feet?
If you have diabetes, the most important thing you can do for your feet is check them daily. Look for new cuts, bruises, or injuries that require attention.
If you notice a wound, treat it immediately. Wash it out, dry it thoroughly, and cover it to prevent infection. Keep an eye on the wound and schedule a visit sooner rather than later if it worsens or fails to heal as expected.
It's also critical to see Dr. Allen regularly so he can evaluate your foot health and catch problems early. He offers suggestions on footwear and other tips to keep your feet healthy with diabetes.
To learn more about our ankle fracture treatments, call one of our offices in Alamo Heights or San Antonio, Texas, today to schedule an appointment or request a consultation online.
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