Three Safety Tips for Walking With Diabetes

As you are planting, pruning and picking out your favorites to spruce up your gardens this summer, you may want to check out the Garden Architecture Exhibition at Architecture Center Houston. Get inspired by looking at some of Houstons historic gardens. Spending a day on your feet could be problematic if you have diabetes. Avoid serious pitfalls with three easy tips for safer walking with diabetes.

Diabetic complications like neuropathywhich impacts your ability to feel heat, cold and pain on your feetcould cause you to sustain a minor injury unknowingly, and poor circulation could then turn it into a non-healing wound or worse. We have seen cases where a minor cut or blister went unnoticed for too long and a serious ulcer developed. In the worst-case scenario, it could lead to amputation.

The first and most important tip is to invest in a good pair of shoes. Your shoes need to be comfortable and have no areas that rub on your feet. Blisters could develop if they are too loose, and a tight-fitting pair could lead to nerve compression. Your socks matter, too, as raised seams could lead to friction, and a fungal infection could occur if feet are constantly sweaty.

The second tip is to inspect your feet thoroughly before you head out for the day. Look for any red spots, small cuts, ingrown toenails, signs of infection, or changes to your skin. Change your shoes if necessary, protect hotspots with moleskin or padding, or add cushioned insoles for extra comfort. Or see us for specially made diabetic shoes.

The third tip is to not waste any time getting a problem looked at. While it may be unfortunate to change your plans for the day, if you have a small injury, it can worsen quickly and become a very serious problem. It is better to be safe than sorry.

We have excellent podiatric care available if you have diabetes. Contact Dr. Jeff Bowman at Houston Foot Specialists for advice, support, or treatment for diabetic foot problems. You can reach our Houston, TX office at (713) 467-8886 or request an appointment online.

Photo Credit: hyena reality via Free Digital Photos.net

Category: Diabetes

Tags: Activity, Diabetes, Exercise, Foot Care