Diabetic Foot Care

About Diabetic Foot Care

One of the most serious and painful effects of diabetes is diabetic foot, which is characterized as having an ulcerated foot in a patient with diabetes who also has neuropathy and/or peripheral artery disease of the lower limb.

If you are experiencing any form of foot issues, you should see our Ankle & Foot Centers of America podiatrist as soon as possible. Our industry-leading podiatrists specialize in the treatment of Diabetic Foot Health. We will assess your situation and discuss your treatment options with you to promptly set you on the path to recovery.

Diabetic Foot Care: What are my treatment options?

Diabetes increases your risk of developing foot issues since it can harm your nerves and reduce blood supply to your feet. Controlling your blood sugar is one of the best things you can do for your feet. Small wounds and sores heal more slowly and may require more time to heal. You may also experience poor or nonexistent foot sensation if your blood sugar is not well-controlled. It is possible that you are even unaware of a slight injury. Diabetes can also cause your feet’s skin to dry out and your heels to crack.

Infection is the main risk. Small cuts or cracks might allow bacteria or fungi to enter. When you have diabetes, you need to take care of your feet. Inform your doctor as soon as possible if you believe you have an infection. Spreading can be prevented with early treatment, and as a result you’re more inclined to steer clear of bigger issues.

Your doctor will examine your feet annually for issues. Taking appropriate care of your feet will help you avoid the majority of serious diabetes-related issues.

Some ways to take care of your feet are:

• Wash and Dry Your Feet Daily
• Check Your Feet Every Day
• Take Care of Your Toenails
• Be Careful When Exercising
• Protect Your Feet With Shoes and Socks
• Make Sure Your Shoes Fit
• Good Shoe Choices
• Diabetic Socks

Diabetic Foot Care: When should I seek treatment?

Diabetes can result in two issues that could harm your feet:

Your nerves might become damaged by uncontrolled diabetes. Your legs and feet may not feel heat, cold, or discomfort if you have damaged nerves. It is known as “sensory diabetic neuropathy” when a person lacks feeling. Due to neuropathy, a cut or sore on your foot could worsen and cause infection if you are unable to feel it. Your foot’s muscles may not function properly because the nerves that supply them with signals are damaged. This could lead to improper foot alignment and excessive pressure on one area of the foot.

Blood flow is impacted by diabetes as well. A cut or sore heals more slowly if there is poor blood flow. Peripheral vascular disease is the term used to describe poor blood flow in the arms and legs. You run the danger of getting ulcers or gangrene if you have an infection that won’t cure owing to insufficient blood flow (the death of tissue due to a lack of blood).

If you have diabetes, contact your doctor if you have any of these problems:

• Changes in skin color
• Changes in skin temperature
• Swelling in the foot or ankle
• Pain in the legs
• Open sores on the feet that are slow to heal or are draining
• Ingrown toenails or toenails infected with fungus
• Corns or calluses
• Dry cracks in the skin, especially around the heel
• Foot odor that is unusual or won’t go away

Make an Appointment Today!

For treatment or to learn more about Diabetic Foot Care and other forms of foot pain, please contact Ankle & Foot Centers of America. We will get you set up to start your path to living life pain free.