The holiday season brings opportunities for celebration, travel, shopping, and family time. However, for patients with diabetes, it can also pose risks to foot health. Changes in routine, increased activity, standing for long periods, and neglecting daily self-care can raise the chances of developing diabetic foot ulcers. These serious wounds can lead to infection, hospitalization, or even amputation if not treated.
As a wound care specialist, I notice a significant increase in diabetic foot wounds during and just after the holidays. The good news is that with proper planning and awareness, most foot ulcers can be prevented. This holiday safety guide provides practical steps for patients with diabetes to safeguard their feet and enjoy the season.
Why the Holidays Increase the Risk of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Patients with diabetes often experience peripheral neuropathy, poor circulation, or both. These conditions make it hard to feel injuries and slow the healing process. During the holidays, several factors can heighten the risk:
Even a small blister or callus can turn into a serious wound if not addressed early.
Daily Foot Checks: Your First Line of Defense
One of the best habits for preventing diabetic foot ulcers is to inspect your feet daily, especially during the holidays.
Patients should check:
Using a mirror or getting help from a family member can be useful if it’s hard to see. Never ignore redness, blisters, cracks, or drainage. Early detection allows for early treatment, which can prevent serious complications.
Choose Footwear Wisely for Holiday Activities
New shoes often cause foot ulcers during the holiday season. While festive shoes may look nice, they can create pressure points that lead to skin breakdown.
Footwear safety tips:
For patients with a history of foot ulcers, diabetic shoes or custom orthotics can provide essential protection.
Keep Skin Healthy During Cold Weather
Cold weather can cause dry skin, raising the risk of cracks and open wounds. Taking care of your skin is key to preventing diabetic foot ulcers.
Dry, cracked skin might seem minor, but it can become an entry point for bacteria and lead to infection.
Stay Active But Avoid Overdoing It
Holiday travel and activities usually mean more time on your feet than usual. While staying active is good, overdoing it without proper foot care can lead to injury.
If you notice persistent pain, swelling, or skin changes, seek medical advice promptly.
Maintain Blood Sugar Control
Managing your blood sugar is crucial for preventing and healing wounds. High blood sugar levels weaken circulation and the immune system, increasing the risk of infection.
Helpful strategies include:
Even short periods of poor control can affect your skin health and healing ability.
When to See a Wound Care Specialist
Many patients put off seeking help during the holidays, thinking foot problems will resolve on their own. Unfortunately, delaying treatment is a major cause of complex diabetic wounds.
Contact a wound care specialist if you notice:
Early intervention can help prevent infection, shorten healing time, and avoid hospitalization.
How a Wound Specialist Can Help
Specialized wound care centers provide advanced treatments for diabetic foot ulcers, including:
Ongoing follow-ups are essential, especially during busy times like the holiday season.
Enjoy the Holidays Safely
The holidays should be a time of joy, not health setbacks. With daily foot checks, careful choices in footwear, proper skin care, and prompt attention to any changes, patients with diabetes can significantly reduce their risk of foot ulcers.
If you or a loved one has diabetes and concerns about foot health, don’t wait for a small issue to turn serious.
Schedule a Wound Evaluation Today
Contact our clinic to schedule an evaluation and keep your feet healthy this holiday season.
