If you are a patient with diabetes, you know that managing your condition is an ongoing process. A key part of this process is understanding how to take care of your feet. Diabetes can affect the nerves, circulation, and healing abilities in the feet, leading to foot problems such as blisters, cuts, ulcers, and infections. However, with proper podiatry care, you can maintain healthy feet and mitigate the effects of diabetes. Let’s look at why diabetes foot care is so important and what podiatrists do to help patients manage their condition.
Why Is Foot Care Important?
People with diabetes are predisposed to foot problems due to their decreased sensation in the feet caused by nerve damage (neuropathy). This means that even small cuts or blisters can become serious quickly without proper treatment. In addition to neuropathy, people with diabetes may also have poor circulation due to high blood sugar levels which makes it harder for wounds or blisters on the feet to heal properly. As a result, even small medical issues that go untreated can lead to severe infections or even amputation if left unchecked.
What Does a Podiatrist Do?
Podiatrists are trained medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the feet, ankles and lower legs. They provide preventive care such as regular check-ups for those at risk of developing diabetic foot complications as well as treating existing conditions like bunions and hammertoes. In addition, they may also provide orthopedic surgery when necessary and fit custom shoes or braces for arch support or pain relief. These professionals understand how diabetes affects the feet and can work with patients to develop treatment plans that reduce the risk of infection while promoting healthy habits like regular foot washing with soap and warm water as well as proper nail trimming techniques.
Diabetes is a serious condition that requires ongoing management and attention from both patients themselves and their healthcare providers in order to stay healthy. When it comes specifically to diabetic foot care, it’s essential for those living with this condition to understand how their body works differently from others in order to prevent infections from occurring due to poor circulation or nerve damage from neuropathy. Working together with a qualified podiatrist can help ensure that your feet remain healthy over time so you can continue living life on your terms!
Dr. Brad Herbst with Podiatry Associates of Florida, San Jose Boulevard Division is ready to help you with your diabetes foot care. With decades of experience, make an appointment today to see Dr. Herbst and improve your foot health.