Healthy Living

For people with diabetes, the winter months are a time when more attention than usual should be given to the feet.

Diabetics are at risk for having reduced blood flow to the lower extremities, and the cold weather compounds this problem. The dry weather from being inside also makes the skin more susceptible to drying and cracking. Also, diabetics have decreased sensation to the lower extremities, which makes for a decreased awareness of issues that may be of concern.

Fortunately, there are steps that diabetics can take during the winter to minimize foot problems:

• Many people use heating pads and warming blankets. Because of the decreased sensation or neuropathy of diabetes, these devices can cause significant foot injuries and should be avoided. If they are used, the temperature of such devices should be checked with the elbow as the sensation is not decreased as it is in the fingers and toes.

• Winter shoes should be checked for proper fit to avoid tightness, which can lead to foot injuries. Clean, dry socks made of natural fiber such as cotton should be worn to reduce irritation.

• Moisturizing can help comfort and exfoliate rough skin, and prevent skin cracking.

• Feet should be patted dry and not rubbed after bathing or showering.

• As with any time of year, diabetics need to be cautious when trimming nails to avoid cutting them too short. If you must clip, work on toes that have been soaked in warm water for a few minutes and are softer. Hard dry nails can split, and lead to problems.

• Routine exercise can be difficult during the winter months, but it is important for diabetics because it increases circulation. Lack of exercise and activity can cause havoc with blood glucose levels, and extra weight is not good for your feet.

• It is also important for diabetics to avoid going barefoot in the house – use a good-fitting pair of slippers.

• Diabetics should check their feet daily, especially after being outside and exposed to the cold. Pay particular attention to any changes in color and shape, cuts, swelling and infected toenails. In the event that a sore develops that doesn't heal in a couple of days, or you have tingling in your feet that doesn't stop or have no feeling in your feet, call your doctor for an appointment. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to larger health issues later.

Mark Tramontozzi, MD, is the Medical Director of the Backus Wound Care and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Center, which is located in the Backus Outpatient Care Center on Salem Turnpike in Norwich. This column should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. If you want to comment on this column or others, visit the Healthy Living blog at www.backushospital.org/backus-blogs or e-mail Dr. Tramontozzi or any of the Healthy Living columnists at healthyliving@wwbh.org