April is Defeat Diabetes Month and Foot Health Month; Tips on how to “De-Feet” diabetes

by Dr. Kristina Thompson, Podiatrist
 
Dr. Kristina Thompson, Podiatrist, provides specialty foot care at Veterans Memorial Hospital. She recommends the following for “de-feeting” diabetes.
• Avoid soaking feet, this causes excessive dryness and can lead to cracks.
• Check feet daily for any new blisters, wounds, etc.  
• Avoid going barefoot, especially if you have neuropathy/diabetic nerve damage.
• Ask your provider about diabetic shoes.
• Work with your providers and/or diabetes educator to keep your glucose within target range.  This decreases risk of complications.
• If you notice a blister or wound, don’t delay treatment.  Get in with a provider with a knowledge on wound care.
• Exercise if you are able.  This increases blood flow circulation.
• Don’t remove callus or corns yourself, see your doctor!
• If you are able to trim your own toenails, trim straight across. If you are unable to trim your own toenails, see a podiatrist for treatment.

In addition to being a podiatrist, Dr. Thompson is also a wound care specialist and diabetes educator. For more information or to make an appointment with Dr. Thompson, feel free to call Veterans Memorial Hospital at 563-568-3411.