For people with diabetes, maintaining good foot care is important all year round. But wintertime comes with its own set of unique challenges, making the need for a well-established foot care routine extremely important.<\/p>\n
Because the feet are kept, \u2018under wraps \u2018during the winter, inside of socks and boots, it\u2019s easy to forget about checking them periodically. But regular foot checks can help you to spot small problems before they escalate. For example, red spots or irritated areas can quickly become infected, and it\u2019s important to make sure you check your feet regularly to ensure there\u2019s no irritation.<\/p>\n
Keep your feet healthy and strong this winter. Here\u2019s what you should look for, and preventative measures you can take to keep your feet in good shape.<\/p>\n
Beware of Fungus<\/strong><\/p>\n In the winter months, feet tend to spend more time confined in socks and boots than summer, making them more susceptible to fungus. To prevent fungus, be sure to change your socks regularly, especially if they are damp. It\u2019s also important to avoid wearing wet or damp shoes. You might also consider sprinkling antibacterial powder in your shoes to help reduce excess moisture. Keeping feet clean can also help to prevent fungal infections.<\/p>\n Watch Circulation<\/strong><\/p>\n During the cold winter months, the blood circulation in your body slows down. For diabetics who are already suffering from impaired circulation, this can lead to additional problems. During winter, many diabetic patients may find that their fingers and toes become dead or numb, or may even turn white in color. If you notice poor circulation in your feet, it\u2019s important to seek medical care to help you manage or address this problem.<\/p>\n Watch for Swelling<\/strong><\/p>\n During the winter months, many people become more sedentary. Spending long periods of time sitting can lead to increased swelling of the feet and ankles. If you spend a significant amount of time sitting, consider doing some basic leg exercises to help keep the blood flowing and reduce swelling.<\/p>\n