What is diabetic foot care?
Diabetic foot care includes evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of foot problems related to diabetes. Examples include:
- Nerve damage
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Infections
- Ulcers
- Other foot wounds
- Swelling
- Ingrown toenails
- Athlete’s foot
You might also notice cuts, red spots, sores, or blisters. Early detection and treatment of diabetic foot problems can prevent serious complications.
What are the risk factors for diabetic foot problems?
If you have diabetes, you’re at risk of developing diabetic foot problems. However, properly controlling your blood sugar levels significantly lowers your risk of developing foot problems. Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly, maintain a healthy weight, get regular exercise, and eat nutritious foods.
What should I expect during diabetic foot care?
During a diabetic foot care appointment at Foot and Ankle Wellness Center, you can expect the following to happen:
Vital signs check
During a vital signs check, your podiatrist measures your weight and checks your pulse, blood pressure, and other vital signs.
Medical history review
During a medical history review, your specialist asks you questions about your past medical history, your symptoms, the medications you’re taking, and your family’s disease history.
Physical exam
Your podiatrist completes a physical exam, evaluating your breathing, heartbeat, reflexes, and more. They take a close look at your legs, ankles, and feet for signs of diabetic foot problems.
Diagnostic testing
Your foot specialist could recommend diagnostic tests, including blood tests, tissue or fluid cultures, X-rays, MRIs, or other imaging procedures.
What are common diabetic foot care treatments?
Depending on what kind of diabetic foot problems you have and how severe they are, your Food and Ankle Wellness Center specialist will suggest one or more of the following diabetic foot care treatments:
- Blood sugar control
- Wound care
- Diabetes shoes
- Orthotics
- Oral or topical medications
- Debridement
- Surgery
Your podiatrist personalizes each diabetic foot care treatment to give you the best results and protect your feet from further problems. They follow up with you periodically to evaluate your feet and detect or rule out problems before complications arise.
To receive exceptional diabetic foot care in a welcoming atmosphere with highly trained staff, call the Foot and Ankle Wellness Center office nearest you today or schedule an appointment online.
