St. Francis Medical Center Podiatrist Offers Foot Health Tips

What kind of shape are your feet in? Oftentimes, we don’t give our feet the attention they deserve.

Dr. David Iorio, podiatrist with the Wound Care Center at St. Francis Medical Center, a member of the Healogics network, says it’s important to inspect your feet often and if you’re experiencing any foot pain, to see your podiatrist or general practitioner.

“We depend on our feet to stand, walk and help us function in daily life. However, we tend to wave away foot pain as being normal. Be sure to inspect your feet and at your next doctor’s appointment, take your socks off. Your feet say a lot about your health and it’s important that they are examined regularly and any foot pain is addressed.”

Dr. Iorio says conditions such as diabetes and peripheral vascular disease put the feet at risk for chronic wounds. Right now, 6.7 million Americans are living with a chronic wound, and more than two million of those are suffering from a diabetic foot ulcer.

There are preventative measures everyone can do to improve foot health. Dr. Iorior offers the following foot care tips:

• Check your feet for red spots, cuts, swelling, blisters, sores or other injuries daily.
• Wash your feet every day and dry them with care, especially between the toes.
• Trim your toenails as needed after you’ve washed and dried your feet.
• Wear properly fitting shoes that do not rub or pinch your feet.
• Always wear socks or stockings with your shoes, and never walk barefoot or while wearing just socks.
• Physical activity can help increase circulation in your feet. Consult your healthcare provider about which physical activity is right for you.

For more information on the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers or chronic or infected wounds, contact the Wound Care Center at St. Francis, at 609-599-5566 for an appointment. St. Francis Medical Center is located at 601 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton, NJ.