Diabetes and Foot Care: The Importance of Seeing a Podiatrist

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the body's ability to produce or use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels over time can damage nerves and blood vessels throughout the body, including in the feet. This can lead to a number of foot complications, including:

• Nerve damage (neuropathy): This can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet.

• Poor circulation: This can reduce blood flow to the feet, making it difficult for wounds to heal.

• Dry skin: This can increase the risk of cracks and sores.

• Deformed toes: This can put more pressure on certain areas of the feet, increasing the risk of sores.

How Podiatrists Can Help

Podiatrists are doctors of the foot and ankle. They are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of foot conditions, including those related to diabetes. Regular foot exams by a podiatrist are essential for people with diabetes. During a foot exam, a podiatrist will:

• Check for signs of nerve damage and poor circulation.

• Inspect the feet for cuts, sores, and other problems.

• Trim toenails and remove calluses.

• Educate you on how to care for your feet at home.

In addition to providing regular foot exams, podiatrists can also treat a variety of foot conditions, including:

• Diabetic foot ulcers: These are open sores that can develop on the feet of people with diabetes.

• Charcot foot: This is a condition that causes the bones in the foot to break down.

• Gangrene: This is a serious condition that can lead to the death of tissue in the feet.

The Importance of Foot Care

Foot care is an important part of diabetes management. Early detection and treatment of foot problems can help prevent serious complications, including amputation. People with diabetes should follow these foot care tips:

• Wash your feet daily with warm, soapy water.

• Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.

• Moisturize your feet regularly with a lotion that is fragrance-free and non-greasy.

• Inspect your feet daily for cuts, sores, and other problems.

• Wear shoes that fit well and provide support.

• Avoid going barefoot.

• See a podiatrist for regular foot exams.

By following these foot care tips, you can help prevent foot complications from diabetes and keep your feet healthy.