Summer sunshine and extended daylight hours make your days warmer. But it also puts your feet under additional stress if you are a person with diabetes. Diabetic foot care in summer becomes especially important, as rising temperatures can cause your feet to sweat and dry out, leading to undetected injuries. Open footwear feels comfortable. But it puts your feet at risk of being cut, burned, and infected, which can get out of hand easily.

Feet are often the first place where complications from diabetes begin to show. Here are several foot care recommendations to support your comfort and well-being throughout the entire season:

Keep Your Feet Clean and Moisturized

Clean feet reduce the chance of infection, making them an essential part of summer foot care. After washing, use a soft cloth to carefully dry them, making sure no moisture remains between the toes. To avoid cracks or dryness, gently spread moisturizer or a jelly-based ointment on the bottoms of your feet, taking care not to apply any between the toes.

Inspect Your Feet Daily

Daily foot checks may catch problems early. Thoroughly check your feet, including the soles, upper parts, sides, heels, and spaces between the toes. Watch for indicators of damage like swelling, cuts, blisters, discoloration, thickened skin, corns, or fungal concerns. Contact your doctor right away if something doesn’t seem right.

Trim Your Nails With Care

Trim toenails straight with clean, sharp toenail clippers. Smooth the edges with a nail file to prevent snagging or cuts. Avoid trimming cuticles or using pointed objects beneath the nails. If your heels are coarse, smooth them with a pumice stone, being gentle and not scrubbing.

Stay Active Safely

Exercise assists in better blood circulation, so try to exercise for a minimum of 30 minutes daily. Opt for supportive shoes while walking or working out. Before initiating new exercises, consult with your physician to find out what types of exercises are appropriate for you.

Always Wear Shoes Outdoors

While going barefoot can be nice and comfortable when it is warm, your risk of cuts and injury increases. Summer time diabetic foot care means keeping your feet protected at all times. You need to wear shoes that give your feet full coverage and support. Avoid shoes that allow your feet to be uncovered, such as flip-flops and open sandals. No matter what, keep your feet away from scratches or wounds.

Select Comfortable Socks

Change fresh socks daily. Wool or cotton fabrics are more suitable because they provide airflow. Skip tight or scratchy socks. Diabetic socks would be an excellent choice to help increase circulation and minimize irritation.

Summer foot care helps you keep your feet healthy and comfortable, especially when you have diabetes. Some simple everyday habits can help you avoid discomfort and further protect your feet during the summer season.

For advice and care for your feet, check with Dr. Bregman for specific knowledge and care at Bregman Foot Ankle and Nerve Center. He possesses more than 25 years of reputable experience and a strong passion to treat diabetic foot-related issues. Book an appointment today to get customized solutions that keep your feet healthy and prepared for any season.