6 Tips to Manage Diabetic Edema in Your Feet

At NY Foot Health, we know that swelling of the feet and ankles is common in patients with diabetes. One reason is that diabetes can decrease blood flow to the lower extremities. Good circulation helps remove excess fluid from your feet, ankles, and the rest of your body. Swelling can also be a sign of an infection or injury. Patients with diabetes also often suffer from neuropathy or nerve damage, which may decrease sensation in the feet and make it difficult to perceive these conditions.

There are ways to ease swelling and prevent it from increasing.

Here are six steps to consider if you have diabetes and are dealing with edema:

1.       Be diligent about diabetes management. Follow all your physician's directions and take any medication as directed. Maintaining an appropriate blood sugar level is the best way to reduce swelling issues.

2.       Visit your podiatrist. It's important to rule out other possible causes of foot and ankle edema. The foot doctor will thoroughly examine your feet and treat any infections or injuries they discover. A podiatrist may conduct lab and other tests and question you about the swelling and other symptoms to determine the cause and the best treatment. If you have diabetes, regular checkups with a podiatrist should be part of your health plan. To find one in your area, use our online directory.

3.       Choose footwear wisely. Avoid socks, stockings, and shoes that are too tight. This will increase swelling. You may want to try compression socks which can help improve circulation. Even these, however, should not be overly tight.

4.       Put your feet up. Elevating your feet above your heart can greatly reduce swelling. You can do this by sitting down or lying on the floor with your feet up against a wall for about 5 to 10 minutes. Do this periodically throughout the day.

5.       Cut back on salt. Salt causes you to retain water and increases swelling. Refrain from adding salt to food—if it tastes flat, choose other herbs and seasonings such as garlic powder and paprika. Look for low or no-sodium options for the foods you enjoy.

6.       Manage your weight. Being overweight strains blood vessels and can damage them, worsening circulation. Exercise has the bonus of improving circulation. Eating well and exercising daily helps you maintain a healthy weight.

To learn more about diabetes and proper foot care, contact us and subscribe to our free e-newsletter.