Foot Risk Level

Knowing your type and level of foot risk can be very helpful in clarifying how a diabetic patient should care for his/her feet. It can be very confusing to know which rules apply to you and at Sowell Podiatry we classify foot risk after a diabetic foot exam and these are specific instructions for each foot risk level. Refer to the diabetic exam form to understand how risk levels are determined.

• Manage your blood sugar as directed by your primary care physician or endocrinologist. • Wash your feet daily and dry between the toes. • Be careful to wear shoes and socks that fit properly. • Carefully trim your toenails straight across with clippers and gently smooth any callus with a pumice stone or skin file. • Moisturizers may be used to keep your skin soft but do not put lotions between the toes. • Call Dr. Sowell if any complications or concerns arise. Bleeding, redness, pain, swelling and changes are all valid reasons to contact the office.
• Manage your blood sugar as directed by your primary care physician or endocrinologist. • Inspect your feet daily. Use a mirror if necessary. • Wash your feet daily and dry between the toes. • Be careful to wear shoes and socks that fit properly. • Allow a podiatrist to trim you toenails and calluses. • Avoid heating pads and hot water foot soaks. • Moisturizers may be used to keep your skin soft but do not put lotions between the toes. • Schedule a complete diabetic foot exam every six months. • Call Dr. Sowell if any complications arise. Bleeding, redness, pain, swelling and changes are all valid reasons to contact the office.
• Manage your blood sugar as directed by your primary care physician or endocrinologist. • Inspect your feet daily. Use a mirror if necessary. • Wash your feet daily and dry between the toes. • Put your feet up when sitting and wiggle your toes and feet often. Don’t cross legs for a long period. • Wear shoes and socks at all times. • Wear shoes specially made for you with insoles that are made for your feet and reduce pressure. • Allow a podiatrist to trim you toenails and calluses. • Avoid heating pads and hot water foot soaks. • Moisturizers may be used to keep your skin soft but do not put lotions between the toes. • Schedule a diabetic foot exam every three months. • Call Dr. Sowell if any complications arise. Bleeding, redness, pain and swelling are all valid reasons to contact the office.
• Manage your blood sugar as directed by your primary care physician or endocrinologist. • Inspect your feet daily. Use a mirror if necessary. • Wash your feet daily and dry between the toes. • Wear shoes and socks at all times. Check the insides of the shoe before putting it on. • Wear shoes specially made for diabetics with insoles that are made for your feet and reduce pressure. • Put your feet up when sitting and wiggle your toes and feet often. Don’t cross legs for a long period.