posted 26 ^th Jun 2019

As the sun makes a rare appearance and weather warms up, flip-flops and open toe sandals begin to creep out from the bottom of the wardrobe. However, if you are someone with diabetes this can be dangerous, especially if you have peripheral neuropathy, diminished sensation, chronically high blood sugars or peripheral arterial disease.

People with diabetes (or any other reason to have reduced feeling in their feet) can have an increase in ulcers and injuries to their feet as they start to wear open footwear and go barefoot in the summer. 

Mr James Davenport, Consultant Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon at Wrightington Hospital, advises the below steps for keeping your feet healthy so that you can participate in all the summer fun to come:

• Apply sunscreen to the tops and bottoms of your feet to protect against sunburn
• Never walk barefoot on the beach or at the pool. This will help you avoid burns from the hot sand or ground, abrasions from rough, anti-slip surfaces, and contact with viruses or bacteria, which can lead to fungal infections or other foot problems
• Wash your feet every night with warm water and gentle soap and then dry them completely with a soft towel. Put lotion on your feet, avoiding the areas between your toes.

Visit your podiatrist regularly to inspect your feet and keep them in the best possible condition. If you are concerned about injury or burn to your feet consult your GP.