People who have diabetes should take extra precautions with foot care during the summer months to prevent serious injury. The summer months can bring about many concerns with diabetic foot care that include: dryness, swelling, cracking, burning, and blistering from walking barefoot on hot surfaces.
The following diabetic foot care tips, as mentioned by the American Foundation for the Blind, can help you protect your feet during the summer season!
Walking barefoot
- Never walk barefoot on the beach, at the pool, in the locker room, or inside your house. This will help you avoid sharp objects, burns from hot pavement or sand, abrasions from rough, anti-slip surfaces, and contact with viruses or bacteria, which can lead to fungal infections or other foot problems.
Sunscreen
- Many feet are forgotten when sunblock is applied. Make sure you remember to apply sunscreen to the tops and bottoms of your feet to protect against sunburn and blistering
Tread lightly and safely
- Use caution when walking or getting your feet too close to campfires. Getting too close can result in burns and blistering, just like a sunburn!
Moisturizing
- If your feet are extremely dry, you should moisturize your feet as needed. However, do not apply lotion between your toes. Moisturizing between your toes creates a warm, moist area that is very inviting to fungus.
Support your feet
- Wear support stockings and elevate your feet when possible if you experience any kind of swelling. This can help to prevent impaired circulation and nerve function.