Diabetes And Your Podiatrist

If you're diabetic you have a lot on your plate. Monitoring your insulin, watching your diet, finding time for exercise and regular check ups with your physician. We know it can be hard to stay on top of your health, but the importance of adding regular visits (every 3-4 months) to your trusted podiatrist can make a world of difference.

Diabetics are more prone to various foot problems than those without diabetes due to the development of painful nerve damage called peripheral neuropathy. This damage to your nerves can cause the loss of feeling in your feet, making it difficult to detect extreme temperatures and pain as easily, or readily, as someone who does not have diabetes. As a result, you could sustain a serious cut or wound and not even notice your foot is injured until an infection begins.

A podiatrist can provide a more thorough exam and detect any signs of changes, such as broken skin or ulcers that can be detrimental to the health of your feet and body. Your podiatrist can also check for areas of high pressure or loss of blood circulation.

Give us a call today to start taking charge of your health: 843-654-8250.

More Tips for Healthy Feet

Trim toenails straight across, but not too short. Be careful not to cut nails in corners or on the sides; this can lead to ingrown toenails. Persons with diabetes, poor circulation, or heart problems should not treat their own feet, because they are more prone to infection.

Make sure that your shoes fit properly. Purchase new shoes later in the day when feet tend to be at their largest, and replace worn out shoes as soon as possible.
Select and wear the right shoe for each sport or activity that you are engaged in (e.g., running shoes for running).

Alternate shoes—don't wear the same pair of shoes every day.

Avoid walking barefooted. Your feet will be more prone to injury and infection. At the beach or when wearing sandals always use sunblock on your feet.

Be cautious when using home remedies for foot ailments. Self-treatment may turn a minor problem into a major one.

If you are a diabetic, please contact our office and schedule a check-up at least once a year.

Diabetes and Your Feet

Diabetics are more prone to various foot problems than those without diabetes due to the development of painful nerve damage called peripheral neuropathy. Neuropathy can affect your entire body, but most often the legs and feet are the most prone areas to serious health complications.

The damage to your nerves can cause the loss of feeling in your feet, making it difficult to detect extreme temperatures and pain as easily, or readily, as someone who does not have diabetes. As a result, you could sustain a serious cut or wound and not even notice your foot is injured until an infection begins. Many diabetic foot problems can be prevented in some measure with improved blood sugar control and a strengthened immune system.

If you are among one of the millions of people in the United States with diabetes, it is important to visit us at Carolina Foot Specialists for regular foot examinations in order to maintain healthy feet and a strong body.