Most of us know that foot exams can be lifesaving for patients with diabetes, but realistically they are important when it comes to diagnosing any serious foot condition. Everyone can develop different types of foot problems, but all can lead to serious complications if left untreated. This is why Dr. Mark Forman recommends foot self-exams at least once a month. Doing this will help you detect irregularities early on. Here are just a few things to look for when self-examining.
- Balance – a good test for balance involves standing on one foot, with your arms out to the side and your eyes close. If you are less than 30 years old, you should be able to balance for 15 seconds, 30 to 40 years old for 12 seconds, 40 to 50 years old for 10 seconds and over 50 years old for seven seconds. This can be improved with exercises.
- Circulation. Look at the color of your toes. Do they look like a normal nail color or are they leaning towards red, white, purple, or blue? Press down on the nail of your big toe until the color blanches. Now let go and allow the blood flow to return to your toe. The return of normal color should take 2 to 5 seconds in a person with average circulation.
- Flexibility. How flexible are your toes? Try to pick up a marble or a small dish towel with your toes. To test your ankle flexibility, hang your heel off of a stair. Now let the heel go below the level of the stair. If this causes pain, stop the test. If your heel goes below the level of the stair without causing strain in your calf, that is a good sign.
- Check your skin for calluses, blisters, or areas of irritation.
If you wish to receive a foot exam from a professional, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide here at the office, visit www.azfootpain.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mark Forman in Scottsdale, AZ, call 480-423-8400.
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