6 Tips for Protecting Your Feet This Summer When You Have Diabetes

Few experiences are more relaxing or liberating than walking barefoot on a beach. With the warm sand under your feet and the sounds of the waves lapping the shoreline, it’s no wonder that the ocean is one of the top nature sounds featured on meditation and relaxation apps. 

This seemingly idyllic scene can quickly turn dangerous for the 34.2 million people in the United States who are living with diabetes. In this blog, the skilled providers at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic, located in New Albany, Mississippi, share six tips for protecting your feet this summer so you can enjoy a healthy summer season.

Diabetic foot care is an important part of daily care when you have diabetes, and unfortunately, this chronic condition never takes a vacation. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t have lots of fun in the sun. Being mindful of some key health precautions will keep you in tip-top shape while enjoying your summer. 

#1 Don’t walk barefoot

Remember that picturesque scene about walking barefoot on the beach? Sorry, but that’s really not a good idea. Avoiding walking barefoot altogether is tip #1. Due to your compromised circulation and sense of feeling, even a few minutes walking barefoot could put you at a higher risk of a puncture or cut.  Even a quick jog to the mailbox on the hot driveway could cause blisters on the soles of your feet. Keep your feet covered and protected. They’ll thank you later. 

#2 Choose your footwear wisely

Now that walking barefoot is off the table, let’s take a look at what footwear will best protect your feet. More than anything else, it’s about protection and proper fit. 

Select footwear that’s the correct size. If you haven’t had your foot measured for a while, now is a good time. Make sure the shoe fits well so you can avoid blisters or excessive rubbing. Comfortable closed-toed shoes that protect the soles of your feet and are made of breathable material are ideal. Wearing sandals every so often is all right, but just make sure you carefully check your feet when you take them off. 

#3 Ward off swelling with compression socks

This one is a tough one particularly because of the heat, but if you are prone to foot swelling wear compression socks and prop your feet up as often as possible. Remember that you want to avoid further circulation issues. Compression socks help reduce swelling by promoting an upward flow of blood.

#4 Examine your feet daily

This one is fairly easy since it should already be part of your daily regimen. Do a thorough examination of your feet looking for cracks, cuts, blisters, or any type of broken skin that could turn into an infection. Don’t forget to check the soles of your feet as well as your ankles. 

#5 Moisturize your feet

Apply moisturizing lotion to your feet daily to avoid dry, cracked skin, which can turn into sores or infections. Forget about soaking your feet as you don’t want to risk the overall strength or integrity of your skin. Do you recognize a familiar theme here? Be mindful of anything that could ultimately make you more prone to developing an infection or sore. 

#6 Be vigilant with your glucose levels

Keeping your glucose levels in check is the best way for you to stay healthy all year long.  Follow our team’s advice regarding monitoring your blood sugar, taking your medication, eating a healthy diet, and getting exercise. 

During the summer you may be tempted to splurge, but sticking to all the things that help you maintain a healthy blood sugar level will enable you to enjoy many more summer vacations in the future.

To learn more about summer diabetic foot care or managing your diabetes, book a consultation with our experienced providers here at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic. Request an appointment online or call today.