Why Diabetic Foot Care is Crucial

Diabetic foot care is one of the most important ways to prevent complications. Now, when conversation turns to diabetes management, most people focus on maintaining blood glucose levels.  They also try to boost physical activity, and lose some weight, especially with Type II diabetes.

Of course, all of that is very important. But many seem to overlook,  the fact that diabetes is a major cause of amputations. And that, without proper diabetic foot care, problems such as ulcers and injuries can worsen and become gangrenous. Here’s what we need to emphasize.

The Diabetic Amputation Epidemic

Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 340 million people in the world suffer from diabetes. Today, preventing and managing diabetes have to go hand in hand. Because even if you avoid amputation, avoiding diabetic foot complications can trigger other health problems, as well.

In fact,  diabetes is often the cause of foot conditions like neuropathy and ulcers. That’s why, if you are diabetic, you need to get your feet checked regularly by our team of Spring, TX podiatrists at Louetta Foot and Ankle Specialists, P.A. During these visits, we’ll examine your lower extremities. That way, we can flag any developing problems that require medical attention. But we also need you to practice extra care at home, between visits.

Diabetic Foot Care at Home

As we’ve reviewed, diabetes affects millions of people every year. It is a very serious illness, damaging blood vessels in many parts of your body, including the feet. When the nerves in your feet sustain damage, they can lose the ability to signal your peripheral nervous system. That results in a condition known as neuropathy.

Once you develop neuropathy, you may not notice minor cuts, blisters or injuries. So, if you don’t check your feet regularly, they could get infected and lead to bigger problems. All without you ever noticing. And that’s why daily at-home foot exams are so crucial. But they aren’t our only weapon.

Diabetic Foot Care at Home

Here are some simple ways to protect your feet between visits to our Spring or Tomball TX podiatry offices.

– Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.

– Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.

– Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

• Record the daily temperature of your feet. While this sounds strange, increased foot temperatures suggest inflammation. And, since inflammation often comes before foot ulcers, noticing a temperature rise can help us intervene before your wounds form.

Additional Care for Diabetics

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their Hemoglobin A1C levels. This test allows the physician to know how well the blood sugar levels are being controlled during the past 3 months. It is important to keep the blood sugar levels in a normal range (70-110mg/dl). Visiting a podiatrist is highly recommended if the diabetic patient is experiencing any conditions involving his or her feet.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet.

If you have any questions, please contact one of our offices in Spring and Tomball, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

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