5 Steps for Performing Your Own Diabetic Foot Check (pegged to National Diabetes Awareness Month)

In November, we observe National Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to learn more about the disease that affects nearly 12% of the American population. At Mastracco Foot & Ankle, we’re vested in the foot health of our diabetic patients. 

Diabetics face an increased risk of foot, ankle, and leg amputations due to the complications of the disease, which can damage nerve and blood vessel tissue. You may have little sensation in your feet, and wounds can heal slowly or not at all. 

Performing your own daily diabetic foot checks provides you with the early warning you need to follow up with us for prompt treatment. Here’s what you need to know about the five steps involved with a diabetic foot check. 

Diabetic foot management

Diabetic patients typically build a team of healthcare professionals, since the effects of high blood sugar can cause a wide range of complications from the eyes to the toes. We specialize in diabetic foot care, and we’re here to help you with annual (or more frequent, if necessary) foot exams. 

However, foot problems won’t always wait until your next professional exam. Performing your own exams, alone or with a family member, can help you spot potential problems before they become major complications. Self-checking your feet is a crucial part of diabetes management. 

5 steps for performing your own diabetic foot check

You can customize your foot checks to suit the conditions of your feet. It’s important, though, to check every day. Minor problems can escalate quickly due to the diabetic changes in your body. 

1. Inspect your entire foot visually

Examine every surface of your feet for discoloration, thickening skin, bruises, cuts, scrapes, broken nails, and skin irritation. Use a smartphone camera for any parts of your feet you can’t observe directly. 

2. Feel all surfaces of your feet

Repeat the process with your hands for any sign of skin changes that aren’t visible. Blisters and calluses can sometimes be easier to feel than to see. 

3. Pay close attention between toes

The skin between your toes is often the place where cracked skin starts. Debris can also collect between closely fitting toes, creating friction and aggravating other problems. 

4. Note any changes, no matter how small

Any change may be significant and a reason to follow up with our podiatrist, Dr. Dominick Mastracco. Discuss anything you notice during your self-checks with Dr. Mastracco to catch problems early. 

5. Wash your feet daily

Keeping your feet clean and dry is an excellent daily care tip. It reduces the chance of infection, and it’s a logical conclusion to your foot check. Use mild soap and warm water, not hot. Dry your feet thoroughly, particularly between the toes. 

When you need follow-up care, or when it’s time to schedule an in-office foot check, call or click to book your spot with Mastracco Foot & Ankle in North Canton, Ohio.