How does having diabetes affect my feet?
When you have diabetes, even a minor cut or sore can develop into an ulcer that doesn’t heal. If the ulcer gets infected, it can lead to gangrene and even amputation. Most diabetic foot problems are related to two underlying issues:
Poor circulation
Blood carries healing properties to areas of injury. Diabetes decreases blood flow to your feet and legs, which causes wounds to heal slowly or not at all.
Diabetic neuropathy
Diabetes causes damage to your nervous system, which is called neuropathy. Symptoms of neuropathy include numbness and tingling in your extremities. When your foot or toe has limited sensation, you may not feel pain from a wound. This can cause the wound to go unnoticed until it becomes infected.
How is diabetes related to gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis that results from high levels of uric acid and most often begins in the big toe joint. People with gout are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes than people who don’t have gout.
How can I prevent diabetic foot problems?
The team at Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC, works with you to keep your feet healthy. If you have diabetes, it’s important to see your provider regularly for preventive care.
These are steps you can take on your own to prevent diabetic foot problems:
- Check your feet every day for problems like discoloration, wounds, corns, or calluses
- Wash your feet every day and dry them thoroughly
- Buy comfortable footwear with a roomy toe box
- Do not shave or trim calluses or corns yourself
- Do not trim your own toenails
- Avoid wearing socks or stockings with tight elastic bands
- Always wear shoes and socks
- Protect your feet from hot and cold
You should call Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC, as soon as you notice any foot problems, including redness, wounds, or ingrown toenails.
What does diabetic foot care entail?
The team at Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC, provides a full range of diabetic foot care services. Depending on your needs, a visit may include:
- Preventive care services like nail trimming
- Treating foot problems like corns, calluses, blisters, wounds, and ingrown toenails
- Fitting you for diabetic footwear
- Basic advice on proper nutrition to help control your blood sugar levels
At select offices, Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC, offers shoes that are specially made just for people with diabetes. Your provider can also recommend shoes that will provide the roominess and comfort that your feet need, as well as prosthetics to go in the shoes if needed.
For excellent diabetic foot care, call Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC, or book an appointment online today.
