Mahaska Health Partnership Educates on Foot Care
Foot Care (submitted photo)
MAHASKA COUNTY – Foot and nail care is an important part of any person’s hygiene regimen, and Mahaska Health Partnership has resources available to help you maintain healthy feet.
The feet experience more wear and tear in a lifetime than any other body part, so it’s important not to neglect foot care. Ignoring a foot problem can cause a great deal of pain and even disability if not treated.
“Foot care has become a bigger issue as we think about overall quality of life and quality healthcare,” shared MHP Podiatrist Dr. Mark Beers. “Our patients are fortunate to have a Certified Wound Ostomy Care (WOC) Nurse and a Diabetes Educator right here in one location.”
Dr. Beers explained that diabetes and wounds are a dangerous combination. The disease causes neuropathy which reduces sensation in the hands and feet so wounds may not be noticed right away. Diabetes also decreases blood flow, causing injuries to heal slowly. A seemingly harmless foot wound can progress to an ulcer and lead to amputation if not cared for properly.
Certified Wound Ostomy Care (WOC) Nurses specialize in the treatment of chronic, non-healing wounds of the legs and feet caused by diabetes and other foot and nail issues. Dr. Beers said he is thankful to be able to refer to WOC Nurse Cindy Donohue and Diabetes Educator Sharon Ferguson at MHP.
“Many people cannot manage their foot problems by themselves due to the severity of the issue, age or disability,” said Dr. Beers. “It’s important to seek medical attention if you notice changes in the color, shape or feel of your feet.”
To ensure better foot health, do the following:
Check your feet everyday for changes. Use a mirror or ask for help if you cannot see the bottom of your feet.
Wear shoes and socks. This will protect your feet from hot and cold.
Keep the blood flowing to your feet by elevating them when sitting and not crossing your legs for long periods of time.
Take care of your diabetes. Keep your blood glucose in your target range.
Wash and apply lotion to your feet daily.
Quit smoking.
If you have corns or calluses, WOCs can trim them and your toenails if you cannot do so safely. Bunions, hammertoes, heel spurs and other foot issues can also be treated. Learning how to manage your diabetes can also prevent foot issues. Contact Specialty Services at 641-672-3360 to learn more about the foot care providers available at MHP.
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, call 641-672-3240 or visit www.mahaskahealth.org.
