If you’re among the more than 30 million Americans living with diabetes, you may already realize how important it is to have a diverse, knowledgeable team of doctors and healthcare professionals specializing in diabetes management. Your diabetes care team is with you each step of the way, monitoring your overall health — including your feet.
Patients with diabetes are more prone to foot ulcers. Poor blood circulation can make your foot unable to fight infection and heal. The board-certified podiatry team at Apple Podiatry Group, with offices in Arlington, Fort Worth, Flower Mound, Texas, are experts in helping patients with diabetes.
Since November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, they break down everything you need to know about caring for your feet when you have diabetes.
Podiatrists understand how diabetes can affect your feet and cause problems such as diabetic ulcers and nerve damage. Because podiatrists have specialized knowledge of feet and ankles, they know best how to treat foot problems associated with diabetes.
Patients with diabetes typically experience circulatory problems in their extremities simply because their blood has to travel further to reach their feet and toes. When you have diabetes, you risk damaging veins in your extremities due to repeated spikes in your blood sugar levels. If left untreated, you may end up with permanent nerve damage and less sensitivity to pain or discomfort in your feet.
Once you have nerve damage and you get a minor cut on your foot, for example, you may not be able to feel it. From there, it can turn into an infected foot ulcer and cause additional health complications, including affecting your immune system.
Seeing a board-certified podiatrist regularly can ensure that you and your feet stay healthy and that any signs of foot ulcers are detected and treated at first sight. Each diabetic foot care appointment at Apple Podiatry includes a physical exam and a comprehensive nerve and sensation check. Additionally, if you have any diabetic ulcers, your doctor treats them and counsels you on how to prevent them.
Your Apple podiatrist also treats corns, calluses, or other conditions on your feet, ankles, and lower legs — before they become serious health concerns.
If you don’t already have a board-certified podiatrist on your diabetes care team, Apple Podiatry is here to help. Call your nearest office in Arlington, Fort Worth, Flower Mound, Texas, today, or use the easy online booking feature to schedule a visit any time.
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