People with diabetes need to take extra precautions with their feet because even a small cut can lead to dire consequences like an amputation. David Biss, DPM, provides individualized diabetic foot care at two Concord Podiatry locations in Concord and Plymouth, New Hampshire. For expertise in diabetic foot care, call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.
Diabetes can pose many dangers to your feet. It causes poor circulation, which means wounds heal slowly or not at all. The longer a wound stays open and unnoticed, the greater the risk for infection.
About half of people with diabetes have some degree of nerve damage, called diabetic neuropathy, which causes a loss of sensation. When nerve damage affects your feet and legs, you might not feel the pain of a wound or injury.
As a result, something as minor as a blister or sore can lead to a nonhealing wound or serious infection that puts you at risk for amputation.
To avoid foot problems that can potentially result in losing a toe, foot, or leg, it’s imperative to follow these guidelines:
In addition to foot care, it’s essential to manage diabetes by keeping your blood sugar levels under control. You should also avoid smoking because that further restricts blood flow to your feet.
People with diabetes should see Dr. Biss at Concord Podiatry for routine foot exams. You should call him right away if you experience any of the following:
Dr. Biss carefully examines your feet and initiates prompt treatment in order to resolve your foot problems before they turn into something serious.
If you or a loved one needs diabetic foot care, call Concord Podiatry, or book an appointment online today.