Diabetic Footcare

Many of the Diabetic symptoms will be expressed in the legs and feet. This is because the high levels of Glucose in the blood stream has a negative effect on the arteries that carry your blood to your feet. The long term of effect of Diabetes on the arteries results in plaque build up in the arteries preventing the proper amount of blood flow to your feet. This is known as Peripheral Artery Disease (P.A.D.). The lack of blood flow means a lack of valuable nutrition the tissues in your lower legs and feet need to function properly. Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease in a diabetic foot are listed below. Taking a simple Peripheral Artery Disease test will allow you to see if you are at risk for Diabetic Foot problems. Your podiatrists can perform these convenient screenings and help guide you in your diabetic foot care.

Diabetes warning signs may include:

• Skin color changes
• Swelling of the foot or ankle
• Numbness in the feet or toes
• Pain in the legs
• Open sores on the feet that are slow to heal
• Ingrown and fungal toenails
• Bleeding corns and calluses
• Dry cracks in the skin, especially around the heel
• Hair Loss below Knees
• Feet are constantly cold

Diabetes can cause multiple complications that can affect your feet.  The below diagram shows several possible impacts diabetes can have on your feet.

Be sure to visit your podiatrist at the first sign that diabetes may be affecting your feet. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to limb amputation and even death.

Here at Podiatry Associates, we will help you determine the best possible treatment option to provide the relief you need. Contact us today!

Your podiatric physician/surgeon has been trained specifically and extensively in the diagnosis and treatment of all manner of foot conditions. This training encompasses all of the intricately related systems and structures of the foot and lower leg including neurological, circulatory, skin, and the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.