DIABETES & YOUR FEET
DIABETES & YOUR FEET
Essential Care for Diabetic Foot Health
Diabetes can have a profound impact on your overall health, particularly when it comes to your feet. High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can lead to a range of complications, making foot care an essential part of managing your condition. At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, we provide specialized care to help prevent and treat diabetic foot problems, ensuring that your feet remain healthy and pain-free.
Understanding the Impact of Diabetes on Your Feet
Diabetes can cause two primary complications that affect the feet: peripheral neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease.
Peripheral Neuropathy
This condition results from nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels. It can lead to a loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult to feel cuts, blisters, or other injuries. Without the ability to feel pain, minor foot problems can go unnoticed and develop into more serious issues.
Peripheral Vascular Disease
Diabetes can also lead to poor circulation, particularly in the legs and feet. Reduced blood flow can slow the healing process and increase the risk of infection. In severe cases, it can lead to ulcers, gangrene, and even amputation.
Common Diabetic Foot Problems
People with diabetes are at increased risk for several foot-related complications, including:
Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Open sores or wounds that develop on the feet, often as a result of minor injuries that go unnoticed due to neuropathy. If not treated promptly, ulcers can become infected and lead to serious complications.
Infections
Even minor cuts or blisters can become infected in people with diabetes. Infections can spread quickly due to poor circulation and may require aggressive treatment to prevent further complications.
Charcot Foot
A condition where the bones in the foot become weakened and can fracture or dislocate. Due to neuropathy, the person may continue to walk on the injured foot, causing further damage and deformity.
Calluses
Thickened areas of skin that can develop due to uneven pressure on the feet. If left untreated, calluses can turn into ulcers.
Poor Circulation
Reduced blood flow can make it difficult for wounds to heal, increasing the risk of infection and complications.
Dry Skin and Cracks
Diabetes can lead to dry skin, which can crack and allow bacteria to enter, increasing the risk of infection.
Preventative Foot Care for Diabetes
Preventative care is crucial for individuals with diabetes to avoid serious foot complications. Here are some essential steps to help protect your feet:
Daily Foot Inspections
Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or any changes in the skin or nails. Use a mirror to inspect the soles of your feet if needed.
Proper Foot Hygiene
Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap. Be sure to dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections.
Moisturize
Apply lotion to keep the skin on your feet soft and prevent cracking. Avoid applying lotion between your toes to reduce the risk of infection.
Nail Care
Trim your toenails straight across and file the edges to prevent ingrown toenails. If you have difficulty reaching your feet or have poor vision, consider seeking professional help for nail care.
Wear Proper Footwear
Choose shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. Avoid tight shoes and high heels, which can cause blisters or other injuries. Always wear socks to protect your feet, and avoid going barefoot, even indoors.
Manage Blood Sugar Levels
Keeping your blood sugar levels within the target range is crucial for preventing diabetic foot complications.
Treatment of Diabetic Foot Problems
At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, we offer a comprehensive range of treatments to address diabetic foot problems:
Wound Care
We provide expert care for diabetic foot ulcers, including cleaning, dressing, and monitoring wounds to promote healing and prevent infection.
Infection Management
Prompt treatment of infections with antibiotics or other therapies is essential to prevent the spread of infection and reduce the risk of complications.
Custom Orthotics
We offer custom orthotics and footwear designed to relieve pressure on the feet, prevent calluses and ulcers, and improve overall foot health.
Surgical Interventions
In some cases, surgical treatment may be necessary to address severe foot deformities, infections, or non-healing ulcers.
Education
We provide education on proper foot care techniques and lifestyle modifications to help prevent future complications.
Why Choose Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic?
With diabetes, vigilant foot care is essential to maintaining your health and avoiding serious complications. At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, our experienced podiatrists are dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of diabetic patients. We are committed to helping you manage your condition and keep your feet healthy.
With five convenient locations in Charlotte University, Ballantyne, South Park, Concord, and Harrisburg, we make it easy to access the care you need. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about how we can help you maintain healthy feet and improve your quality of life.
