At Foot & Ankle Specialists PC our patients with diabetes know that proper foot care is essential in managing the disease. Summertime presents some special challenges in caring for your feet. Due to issues with circulation and healing seemingly minor problems can become major worries if you have diabetes. Here are the biggest concerns:

1. Cuts and puncture wounds: Whether you’re wading into the lake or collecting shells along the shore, you are at risk for stepping on sharp objects that could cut your foot. Water shoes are recommended to prevent punctures and injuries. Since many patients with diabetes experience neuropathy and decreased sensation in the feet, it’s possible to injure your foot and not even realize it for several hours. If you do get a cut, treat immediately with anti-bacterial ointment and do not go in the water as this may cause an infection.
2. Blisters: Wearing sneakers without socks or shoes that don’t fit properly plus sweaty feet equals blisters. When blisters pop, they create the possibility for a sore to form and possibly even become infected. Avoid shoes that rub on your foot in any way and if you feel a blister forming cover loosely with a bandage until you can see the foot doctor.
3. Fungal Infections: Summer months mean extra opportunities to come in direct contact with fungi and bacteria that cause athlete’s foot, fungal toenails and other infections—damp places like the community pool, changing areas and restrooms are the perfect breeding grounds. Make sure you wear flips flops in public areas and also avoid sharing socks, shoes, towels or anything that touches someone else’s feet.
4. Sunburn: For some reason, people often forget their feet when applying sunscreen. The skin on your feet is even more likely to burn because it stays covered up for most of the year. You should apply sunscreen not just when you’re tanning by the pool but even when you’re running errands in open shoes. If you are laying out in the sun make sure you apply sunscreen to the bottoms of your feet too. Burns can blister and quickly become open wounds so it’s best to avoid altogether if possible.

Of course despite your best efforts, you may sustain an injury or burn to your feet. If that happens, contact our Monroe or Lambertville office immediately. Our podiatrists, Dr. Scott E. Hughes, Dr. Greg P. Vogt, Dr. Christine I. Tumele, and Dr. Matthew W.E. Lewin will want to see you as soon as possible and treat your foot to head off any trouble. Call us at 734-241-0200 or 734-856-8900 or reach us online.