Diabetic Foot Care Specialist

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a blanket term used to describe a group of diseases that cause high blood sugar. Blood sugar provides energy to all of the cells in your muscles and soft tissues; it also fuels your brain. However, if your blood sugar levels are too high for an extended period of time, you’re more likely to suffer from serious health problems, including permanent nerve damage and heart disease.

How does diabetes affect my feet?

Diabetes affects your feet in several different ways. First, high blood sugar causes nerve damage (neuropathy). Nerve damage causes tingling and numbness in your legs and feet. Over time, this can prevent you from noticing if you cut yourself or you experience a puncture wound. Nerve damage also affects your balance and can increase your risk of falling.

Second, diabetes affects your circulation. Without proper blood flow to your legs and feet, you’re more likely to experience ingrown toenails, blisters, and slow healing wounds (ulcers). Without proper treatment, these ulcers can become infected and require surgery or, in a worst-case scenario, amputation.

What is diabetic foot care?

Diabetic foot care is a branch of podiatry focused on managing your diabetes and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to keep your feet healthy.

At Orthopedic Associates: Foot & Ankle Specialists, the team recommends:

• Getting in regular medical exams
• Exercising regularly
• Eating a healthy diet
• Monitoring your blood sugar daily
• Inspecting your feet daily

By following these tips, you can prevent serious complications associated with diabetes.

How can I lower my risk of diabetes-related foot problems?

There’s no way to prevent complications related to diabetes entirely. However, you can significantly lower your risk by inspecting your feet carefully every day.

When you first wake up in the morning, examine your toes, heels, soles, and the tops of your feet. If you notice a cut, blister, redness, or bruises, contact the team at Orthopedic Associates: Foot & Ankle Specialists right away.

It’s also important to regularly wash your feet with warm water and mild soap. After cleaning your feet, gently pat them dry with a clean towel. Make sure to dry the skin in between your toes as well.

Make sure to moisturize your feet regularly. If your skin is dry and cracked, it’s more susceptible to cuts, calluses, and blisters.

If you’re living with diabetes, make sure you take diabetic foot care seriously. Request an appointment at Orthopedic Associates: Foot & Ankle Specialists by calling the office or using the online booking tool today.