April is Foot Health Awareness Month

Some people believe that you can read the lines on the palm of your hand to know your future. Well did you know that you can check your feet for serious health issues such as diabetes? That's why it's important to have your physician check your feet every time you go in for a check-up. Foot and ankle health is important to your overall well-being and people with diabetes need to pay special attention to their feet. Those with diabetes should check their feet everyday. If you have diabetes or know someone that does, the list below will provide you with helpful information on what to do when it comes to your feet.

• Inspect feet daily. Look for cuts, blisters, scratches, and any redness or swelling. • Don't forget to inform doctor's that you have diabetes. • Wash feet daily and dry carefully between toes. • Powder feet after washing and drying. • Use a good lotion to protect feet from drying and cracking, but not between toes. • Cut toenails straight across. • Keep feet warm and dry. • Wear loose-fitting socks to bed if feet are cold, but do not use any kind of heating device on feet. • Wear comfortable shoes. • Always inspect the inside of shoes for foreign objects and for any tears or holes.

Awareness is a powerful tool we can use against diabetes and its complications.

Don't neglect your feet; they get you to where you want to go.