With about a month or so left of summer, there's still plenty of time to get good use out of those convenient and funky flip-flops of yours. Have to go run an errand? Throw on the "flips." Bringing the trash outside? Throw on the "flips." Spending the entire day shopping downtown? Hmmm...this may be one of those instances where the "flips" may be more flop, and more sensible shoes are a better option.

Flip-flops offer almost no support to your feet and ankles. For people living with diabetes, foot care should be of great importance, so traipsing around town for an extended period of time in flip-flops isn't really the best idea. Constantly wearing them can potentially lead to tendinitis or even metarsalagia -- the inflammation of the joints located in the ball of the foot. Moreover, flip-flops offer very little protection against sharp objects such as rocks, glass, or metal; leaving your feet vulnerable for injury.

While it is important to let your feet "breathe," flip-flops are footwear best worn during times of relaxation, not when you plan to spend the day walking.

Diabetes can do a lot of harm to your feet. The worst case scenario is severe nerve or tissue damage necessitating amputation. Early intervention is critical for avoiding this drastic measure, and researchers are looking at various ways in which this can be done. A brand new example of this kind of research comes courtesy of the foot docs at CLEAR - Scholl's Center for Lower Extremity Ambulatory Research at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, which is located in Chicago. CLEAR researchers found that nearly three out of four diabetics who are at high risk for amputation have diseased toenails. The finding was announced recently at a conference for the American Academy of Dermatology, being held in Washington, DC.

Says co-author of the study, Stephanie Wu, the study helped confirm what many suspected but was previously unproven. "It appears," said Dr. Wu, "that if you have certain pre-existing risk factors for amputation coupled with a clinically diseased nail, chances are you have a significant fungal infection based on laboratory cultures." It is hoped that this knowledge can help prevent amputations by helping physicians identify those who are at risk more quickly than might have previously been the case.

Diabetics almost always have problems with their feet.  Poor circulation causes swelling in the legs and feet, minor trauma like a stumped toe that does not heal, callus formations, nerve damage, are all problems with the feet when you are a diabetic. So how do you prevent some of these problems from happening? Take care of your feet daily.

Inspect your feet every day for bruises, cuts, sores, or changes in your toenails. Pay more attention to minor injuries if you drop something on your foot or kick something accidentally. Wash your feet daily with a mild soap and luke warm water and be sure to dry between your toes very good. Also use a moisture cream if your feet are dry to prevent cracking but make sure you rub it in well and don't leave lotion in between your toes. Keep your toenails trimmed and never cut into the side of the nail. Always cut straight across the nail and file away any sharp corners or edges. Do not try to remove or cut off a callus or corn on your own. Always see a Podiatrist for that so you don't injure yourself. Buy shoes based on comfort and fit and make sure your shoes are not too tight. Measure your foot every time you buy shoes. Shoes should fit both the length and the width of the foot leaving plenty of room for the toes and should not need a "break-in" period. Avoid high heels, toe rings, and pointed toes. Be sure to wear shoes all the time and do not go barefoot. This reduces the risks of an injury to your foot, even when walking around in your home. Massage your feet daily to increase blood flow and to give yourself a little treat that feels good and relaxes you.

Taking care of yourself means taking care of every part of your body so don't forget the part that carries the load.