What Is Diabetic Foot Care?
Diabetic foot care involves a comprehensive approach to prevent and manage foot complications in individuals with diabetes type 1 or 2. High blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage, poor circulation and skin changes. This increases the risk for foot ulcers, infections, and other serious complications. Consistent checkups and communication with your healthcare team are important for reducing complications.
How it works
Importance of Diabetic Foot Care:
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder affecting all aspects of health. Care for the feet and legs is particularly significant. The most common causes of foot & ankle complications include:
- Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): Diabetes can cause loss of sensation in the feet, making injuries harder to detect.
- Poor Circulation: Reduced blood flow can slow healing and increase the risk of infections.
- Increased Risk of Ulcers: Diabetics are more susceptible to foot ulcers, which can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly.
Essential Foot Care Practices:
- Daily Inspection: Regularly check your feet for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Use a mirror if necessary to see the soles.
- Proper Footwear: Wear well-fitting, supportive shoes that provide adequate protection. Avoid walking barefoot.
- Maintain Foot Hygiene: Wash your feet daily with mild soap and warm water, and dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Moisturize: Apply lotion to prevent dry skin, but avoid applying it between the toes to reduce moisture buildup.
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist to monitor foot health and address any concerns.
When to Seek Help:
Diabetic foot care should be an integral part of diabetic medical management. Routine foot care frequency ranges from every 90 days to yearly checkups. Make an appointment with our specialists if you experience:
- Wound Care: If you notice any cuts or sores that do not heal, seek prompt medical attention.
- Increased Pain or Swelling: Report any unusual pain, redness, or swelling to your healthcare provider.
- Changes in Skin Color or Temperature: These changes can indicate circulation problems and require immediate evaluation.
If you have diabetes, proper foot care is essential for maintaining your overall health and preventing complications. Our podiatry team specializes in diabetic foot care and can help you develop a personalized plan to keep your feet healthy. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
What our patients say
Dr. McDonald performed my father's surgery with exceptional skill and provided outstanding follow-up care, ensuring our comfort throughout the process.
I am currently seeing Dr. McDonald for my ankle and I am overjoyed with the care that I receive from his clinic. The staff is always friendly and accommodating. I always feel heard with any concerns that I have. Dr. McDonald explains any/all processes thoroughly.
I’ve been having some pain in my feet for the past few months, went to visit footy & ankle clinic, and receive an injection & bough some shoe insoles, hopefully it will work 😇 great service …
Excellent service. Dr. McDonald was very thorough and discussed my problems and my options! I would highly recommend this clinic.
Absolutely the best care! Dr. McDonald was the 3rd podiatrist I had seen with chronic ankle pain. Was able to do x-rays in-office and read them immediately. He was able to find the cause of my problem and treat it when Froedtert said there was nothing wrong with my foot. Came up with a treatment plan and did a steroid injection and have finally been pain free for the first time in 2 and 1/2 years. Truly the most caring, attentive, and knowledgeable!
Dr. McDonald always takes his time with me which I appreciate. He also has an excellent staff. He really listens and has a kind and gentle approach. I have seen many doctors in his specialty and he is by far my favorite! I highly recommend him!