Why is Diabetic Foot Care Important?

Diabetes can lead to two major complications that significantly impact foot health:

1. Nerve Damage (Peripheral Neuropathy): High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves in your feet, causing reduced sensation. This means you might not feel injuries like cuts, blisters, or burns, allowing them to worsen without realizing it.

2. Poor Circulation (Peripheral Arterial Disease): Diabetes can reduce blood flow to your feet, slowing the healing process. This increases the risk of infections and other complications.

Together, these issues can lead to serious problems, including ulcers, infections, and in severe cases, the need for amputation.

Common Diabetic Foot Problems

Here are some conditions that people with diabetes should monitor closely:

1. Diabetic Ulcers: Open sores that develop due to poor circulation and unnoticed injuries.

2. Calluses and Corns: Thickened skin that can become painful or infected if untreated.

3. Infections: Cuts or wounds can easily become infected due to impaired healing.

4. Fungal Infections: Conditions like athlete’s foot or fungal toenails are more common and harder to treat in diabetics.

5. Charcot Foot: A serious condition where weakened bones in the foot can fracture or dislocate, leading to deformity.

   
   

How to Care for Your Feet with Diabetes

1. Inspect Your Feet Daily

Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or any changes in skin color. Use a mirror to see the bottoms of your feet or ask a loved one for help.

2. Wash and Dry Your Feet Properly

• Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap (avoid hot water).

• Dry them carefully, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections.

3. Keep Your Skin Moisturized

Apply a moisturizer to keep your feet hydrated, but avoid the spaces between your toes to reduce the risk of fungal growth.

4. Trim Your Toenails Safely

Cut your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short to prevent ingrown toenails. If you have difficulty, visit a podiatrist for professional nail care.

5. Wear Proper Footwear

• Choose shoes with good support, cushioning, and a wide toe box.

• Avoid tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes that can increase pressure points.

• Consider custom orthotics for added comfort and support.

6. Don’t Walk Barefoot

Even indoors, always wear shoes or slippers to avoid accidental injuries.

7. Manage Blood Sugar Levels

Keeping your blood sugar under control is key to reducing the risk of complications. Work with your healthcare team to monitor and maintain healthy levels.

When to See a Podiatrist

Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following:

• Cuts or wounds that don’t heal.

• Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.

• Changes in skin color or temperature in your feet.

• Severe foot pain or numbness.

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At Sunshine Foot & Ankle LLC, we offer specialized diabetic foot care services, including routine check-ups, nail care, and wound management.

Preventing Diabetic Foot Complications

Prevention is the best way to protect your feet. Here are additional tips:

• Stay Active: Regular, low-impact exercise like walking improves circulation.

• Quit Smoking: Smoking worsens circulation and increases the risk of complications.

• Wear Diabetic Socks: These are designed to reduce pressure and wick away moisture, keeping your feet dry.

• Get Routine Podiatry Exams: Regular visits to a podiatrist can catch potential issues early.

  
  

How Sunshine Foot & Ankle LLC Can Help

At Sunshine Foot & Ankle LLC in Lauderdale Lakes, FL, we understand the unique needs of diabetic and senior patients. Our comprehensive services include:

• Regular foot exams to monitor for any changes.

• Wound care to prevent and treat ulcers or infections.

• Custom orthotics to improve foot mechanics and reduce pressure points.

• Expert advice on footwear, socks, and skincare.

  
  

Take Action Today

Don’t let diabetes put your foot health at risk. Whether you need a routine check-up or help managing a specific issue, our experienced team is here to help.

📞 Call us today at (754) 296-5900 to schedule an appointment, or visit us at 2951 Northwest 49th Avenue, STE 204, Lauderdale Lakes, FL, ZIP 33313. Let us help you take the first step toward healthy, pain-free feet!