Diabetic Foot Care Specialist

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is an umbrella term used to describe a group of chronic diseases characterized by high blood glucose (sugar). Everyone needs glucose to survive. It provides energy for your brain and fuels the muscles and soft tissues throughout your body.

If your blood sugar levels are too high for an extended period, though, it increases your risk of high blood pressure and other more serious health problems. 

Why would I need diabetic foot care?

Diabetes causes several issues that increase your risk of foot-related health problems, including:

Diabetic neuropathy

If you don’t control your diabetes, you might experience neuropathy or permanent nerve damage. Neuropathy prevents the nerves in your feet and legs from feeling sensations such as hot, cold, and pain. If you have neuropathy, you might cut or injure your foot and not even realize it. Neuropathy also increases your risk of infections, muscle damage, and falls.

Peripheral vascular disease

Diabetes also affects your blood flow. Without healthy circulation, it takes longer for cuts and other injuries to heal. If you have an infection that doesn’t heal because of poor blood flow, you’re also at risk of developing gangrene or ulcers.

Do diabetic feet cause other health problems?

Foot problems affect people of all ages and backgrounds, but if you have diabetes, you’re much more likely to experience issues such as:

• Athlete’s foot
• Fungal toenails
• Calluses
• Corns
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Dry skin
• Diabetic ulcers
• Hammertoes
• Plantar warts

If you have diabetic feet, you’re also more likely to develop an ingrown toenail. 

What’s involved in diabetic foot care?

At Podiatry Hotline Foot & Ankle, the team uses both conservative and surgical management to treat all types of diabetic foot issues. Following an exam of your feet and toes, a discussion of your symptoms, and a review of your medical history, your podiatrist can make recommendations that align with your individual needs.

The team might recommend lifestyle changes like exercising, losing weight, or eating a more balanced diet. You might also benefit from prescription medications, diabetic shoes, or medical-grade custom orthotics. If your symptoms persist or get worse, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Why is diabetic foot care important? 

Diabetic foot care is important because diabetes affects the circulation in your feet. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes damage your peripheral nerves and blood vessels. This damage increases your risk of slow-healing ulcers, infections, and, in severe cases, amputations.

If you don’t maintain a healthy lifestyle, regularly inspect your feet, and go to annual checkups at Podiatry Hotline Foot & Ankle, you’re also at a higher risk of developing foot-related complications. By taking preventive measures, you can keep your blood sugar levels in check and live a long and active life.

Request your diabetic feet appointment at Podiatry Hotline Foot & Ankle today by calling the office or using the online booking tool.