Diabetes Awareness Month = Time for Diagnostic Testing!
November is American Diabetes Month, and for good reason, too: in New Jersey alone, about 746,400 adults have diabetes, a number representing approximately 10.2% of our state’s adult population. With an estimated 43,000 new diagnoses for adult diabetes coming in annually, the problem is both dire and growing.
Caring Podiatry knows just how impactful routine examinations can be for those who struggle with this chronic condition, so in this blog post, we’ll cover the ins and outs of early detection. First, however, we’ll start with the two problems most patients wish they’d discovered earlier.
Why Focus on Feet?
Diabetes leads to two main complications that harm your feet:
Peripheral Neuropathy:
This condition causes nerve damage, leading to numbness, tingling, or pain in your feet. It can increase your risk of injuries and infections that you might not even feel.
Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) and Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD):
Conditions like PAD or PVD affect your circulation, reducing blood flow to your feet and legs. This can hinder wound healing and, in severe cases, lead to amputation.
Early Detection is Key
We utilize the latest technology to detect early signs of peripheral neuropathy and circulatory conditions, including:
Sudomotor Testing:
This non-invasive test measures the sweat glands' response to stimulus, helping us assess the health of your autonomic nerves and detect early signs of neuropathy.
Vascular Testing through MedStar Diagnostic:
This comprehensive evaluation uses advanced techniques like Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow in your legs and feet, identifying any signs of PVD.
By detecting these conditions early, we can develop a personalized treatment plan to manage complications effectively and prevent serious foot problems. That said, if you don’t come in enough, we won’t have the opportunity to perform these tests in the first place!
How Often Should You See a Podiatrist?
The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recommends that people with diabetes see a podiatrist at least once a year for a comprehensive foot exam. However, if you notice any changes in your feet, such as non-healing sores, changes in skin color, ingrown toenails, or numbness and tingling, schedule an appointment immediately.
Contact our Monroe Township (609-860-9111) or Neptune (732-455-8700) offices to make an appointment. Podiatrists Andrew Schmierer, Craig Shapero, and Mark Fillari will be happy to assist you with the warmth, compassion, and expertise Caring Podiatry is known for.