Diabetic Foot Care
The Diabetes Research Institute estimates about 10 percent of the U.S. population may be affected by diabetes. This amounts to nearly 35 million people. It’s a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar, or glucose. High blood sugar levels can have an impact on all parts of the body, including the feet. In fact, it’s especially important for anyone with diabetes to be diligent about proper foot care.
How Does Diabetes Affect Feet?
Diabetes tends to have an effect on small nerves and small blood vessels that flow through the feet. Reduced blood flow makes it difficult for sores or wounds on feet to properly and quickly heal. Additionally, nervous system damage reduces sensation in feet. This can make it difficult to feel pain and pressure which can lead to trouble as our feet constantly adjust to support our entire body weight.
What Are Signs of Diabetic Foot Issues?
Ideally, you’ll want to visit Dr. Tievsky for a diabetic foot exam before there’s a serious issue. One way to accomplish this goal is by scheduling periodic foot exams just to make sure everything is fine foot-wise. Doing so also allows potential issues to be detected and addressed sooner rather than later.
Warning signs suggesting you may have diabetes-related foot issues include:
- Unexplained swelling in feet or legs
- Changes of skin coloration within your foot/ankle area
- Burning and/or tingling sensations in one or both feet
- Numbness in toes or other parts of feet
- Foot sores that are slow to heal
- Brownish discoloration on the shins
What is a Diabetic Foot Exam?
When you schedule a diabetic foot exam at Tievsky Podiatry, your feet will be thoroughly examined. This is done to determine if there are any visible sores or other irregularities that warrant further evaluation and/or treatment. Any foot infections that are noticed can also be treated. Between visits to our office, keep your feet healthy by:
- Checking your feet after showering or bathing
- Taking steps to manage your diabetes
- Thoroughly cleaning your feet daily
- Moisturizing your feet – but not between toes since lingering moisture can contribute to fungal infections
If you are living with diabetes, be proactive about the diagnosis and treatment of foot-related problems. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Tievsky at Tievsky Podiatry for an in-office assessment of your feet. Regular foot exams can also be scheduled.
Contact our office today to set up an appointment for a diabetic foot exam.