Millions of Americans have diabetes. Are you among them? In addition to controlling your blood sugar levels, it’s crucial to take good care of your feet. That’s because diabetes-related damage to the blood vessels that supply the feet increases your risk of foot problems.
Everyone with diabetes should have a foot and ankle specialist as part of their care team. At Concord Podiatry, Dr. David E. Biss provides top-quality diabetic foot care. Routine foot problems are much more risky for people with diabetes. This means that it’s vital to contact your foot specialist immediately if you have signs of problems with your feet.
In this blog, we’ve put together some common foot issues that require expert care if you have diabetes so you can recognize them and get care from a foot specialist as soon as possible.
Nerve damage is a common diabetes complication. Diabetic neuropathy typically affects the nerves in the legs and feet, making nerve pain common. You may experience shooting pain in your feet, burning, and numbness.
If you have diabetes and are experiencing foot pain, consult with a foot and ankle specialist. Diabetic neuropathy, while common, requires expert care and monitoring.
Foot ulcers are open sores that are slow to heal. They’re typically found on the bottom or sides of the feet, or even on the tip of a toe. In some cases, the wound can be excruciatingly painful.
When you have diabetes, foot problems can be a symptom of a more serious illness, leading to major complications. Always call your provider immediately when you notice a sore on your feet. Due to the lack of blood flow, small wounds can quickly turn into large open sores.
Without treatment, a foot ulcer can become infected, resulting in serious problems such as decreased foot function. In some situations, you could face amputation.
Blisters are typically caused by friction from your shoes. It’s important to wear shoes that fit well and provide enough room in the toe box to prevent your foot from rubbing against the inside of your shoes.
Although blisters are routine foot problems for many people, they can be dangerous for diabetics due to their increased risk of infection. Having diabetes makes your feet more sensitive and prone to infection. To prevent potential complications, see a foot care specialist to care for any blisters you develop.
Diabetes can affect your skin, reducing its ability to retain moisture. As a result, many people with diabetes experience very dry feet.
If you experience dry skin that splits or peels, report it to your foot care provider. When skin becomes this dry, your risk of infection increases. Your provider can recommend ways to hydrate your feet, including using a medically formulated lotion and wearing special socks.
Tinea pedis, also known as athlete's foot, is a very common fungal infection. People with diabetes are more likely to get athlete’s foot, and it poses a greater risk than it does in people without diabetes.
If you have an active fungal infection, or you’re prone to getting them, seek expert foot care to keep your feet healthy. In addition to using antifungal creams, special socks are available that are made of antifungal materials. Your provider can discuss the best approach to treating your fungal infection.
Diabetic foot care is essential to optimizing your foot health and your overall wellness. Having a foot and ankle expert on your care team is an important part of living well with diabetes.
For all of your diabetic foot care needs, call Concord Podiatry in either Concord or Plymouth, New Hampshire, to schedule a consultation with Dr. Biss. Another option is to send us a text at 351-777-6056. We’re by your side in the battle against diabetic foot complications.
