Summer Footcare "Dos and Don'ts"
While summer is the time for open sandals or going barefoot, this could spell serious trouble for the 16 million people with diabetes.

"Self-managed footcare is important for diabetics," says Kenneth S. Hershon, M.D., endocrinologist and medical advisor to the Silipos? Don't Sugarcoat the Facts diabetes education campaign. "Being proactive is very important with a disease like diabetes, since most of the responsibility for preventing traumatic complications, such as amputation, is placed on the patient." This means wearing protective shoes and socks at all times - even in the summer months - since a cut or splinter can turn into a medical emergency for a diabetic.

At least 80 percent of lower limb amputations in the United States, which are normally caused by wounds that do not heal, occur among diabetics, resulting in approximately 67,000 amputations each year. The following footcare tips from Silipos are important "steps" for preventing foot injury - and possibly, amputation - in diabetics:

Don't go barefoot indoors or out, even in the summer months. A splinter, shard of glass or blister can turn into an emergency for a person with diabetes.

Try not to cross legs when sitting to allow clear blood flow to the feet at all times.

Don't break-in a new pair of shoes or sneakers in one day. Instead, break them in over a few days, in short intervals. Be sure to inspect feet during this process to make sure that the shoes haven't created blisters or cuts.

Check feet daily for redness or any type of irritation. For tough to see areas, use a mirror or ask someone to assist.

Keep area in between toes clean, dry and free of moisture to avoid fungal infection.

Cut across when trimming toenails, but be sure not to leave sharp edges that might cut other toes. Seek the assistance of a podiatrist (foot doctor), if necessary.

Protect feet by wearing shoes that fit properly. Poor fitting shoes are the source of most minor foot problems for people with diabetes.

Buy shoes that are made of cotton or leather because they allow feet to breathe. Alternate shoes daily to avoid constant pressure in the same spot of the foot.

Choose the right socks. Wear soft, seamless, protective socks, such as the Silipos? Arthritic/Diabetic Sock or the Silipos? Soft Walk Gel Sock, both with a proprietary gel sole to cushion the entire foot and help absorb sheer force and friction.

Wear shoes or protective socks at ALL times.

For additional tips and information about preventing the devastating complications of diabetes, or to order the gel socks online, visit the Silipos? Don't Sugarcoat the Facts diabetes site at www.silipos.com.

Media Contact:Alyson O'Mahoney

Robin Leedy & Associates, Inc.

(914) 241-0086