Diabetes and Your Feet
As many as 23 million Americans have been diagnosed with
diabetes and podiatrists are one of their primary doctors they see
on a regular basis. Over time diabetics may develop
neuropathy (peripheral neuropathy) which is a loss of sensation
that starts in the toes and moves up the legs. This can be
very dangerous as it is nearly impossible to feel any cuts,
injuries, wounds or ulcers. Also, with decreased or poor
circulation to the feet any injury to the foot can quickly lead to
infection and worse. Diabetes is one of the leading
cause of lower leg and foot amputations.
Signs and Symptoms
Initial symptoms can include numbness, a wound that won't heal
or a chronic infection. In fact, a podiatrist is often
the first to diagnose a patient as diabetic. Care of the
diabetic foot is essential for preventing further symptoms from
developing. Diabetes can damage the nerves, leading to
peripheral neuropathy. Diabetes can cause poor
circulation which can slow the healing process and even lead to
infection.
Treatment
A significant part of treatment of the diabetic foot is regular
visits to your podiatrist to prevent further complications.
Our podiatrist can treat any wounds or ulcers and help prevent new
ones. We can manage any infection you may have and help
prevent new ones as well. We offer diabetic shoes which have
extra depth and width to prevent skin breakdown, sores or
ulcers. We perform diabetic exams at least annually to
determine the quality of the circulation in your lower legs and
feet and any temperature changes. We will trim your toenails
and calluses. It is dangerous for you to trim your own feet
and nails as this can lead to cuts or knicks that can become
infected. We perform vascular exams to detemine the quality of
blood flow in your legs. We work closely with some of the top
vascular surgeons in town if you need further care for your
circulation issues.
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