How Diabetes Affects Your Feet
In recognition of American Diabetes Month, we at Caring Podiatry want to share information about how this disease can impact your podiatric health. Diabetes is often associated with peripheral neuropathy or nerve damage, which can make it difficult to detect foot problems due to decreased sensation in your feet. Poor circulation and a compromised immune system may slow the healing process for any wounds that develop, leading to infection and, in the worst-case scenario, even amputation.
The combination of these conditions, which are frequently associated with diabetes, makes this a potentially serious medical threat to your feet. The good news is that there are many steps you can take to greatly reduce your risk for podiatric complications associated with diabetes.
Early Detection of peripheral neuropathy & poor circulation can Prevent Diabetic Foot Problems
Be Vigilant—it’s essential to check your feet every day. Signs of potential problems include:
Swelling
Pain in feet or lower legs
Changes in skin color
Decreased or lost sensation in your toes and feet
Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in your feet
Foot pain
Be Disciplined—follow a daily care regimen to protect your feet. This includes washing your feet with soap and water, using a foot or anti-fungal powder before putting on your socks in the morning, and moisturizing your feet at night before bed.
Be Protective—keep feet covered, even at home, to prevent injury. Don’t expose your feet to direct heat. Don’t allow your feet to get damp. Start the day with clean socks, and if your feet get sweaty, change your socks as soon as possible. Be sure shoes fit properly and wear them with socks, specially made for diabetic patients with loose tops, no seams on the toes, and extra cushioning.
Be Proactive—do everything your doctor says to control your blood sugar levels. Exercise regularly and don’t smoke to ensure maximum circulation.
Don’t Play Doctor—if you have a callus or corn or an ingrown toenail, don’t try to remove it on your own. This could lead to injury or infection. Take care of your toenails or ask someone to trim them for you. Make sure they are cut straight across with no rounded edges.
It’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you’re a diabetic patient concerned about your feet, don’t hesitate to contact us today. For early detection of Peripheral Neuropathy. The American Diabetes Association recommends a noninvasive test called: sudomotor function assessment to detect peripheral neuropathy in patients diagnosed with diabetes and prediabetes.
We now offer this service which is covered by most insurances in our Monroe Township (609-860-9111) and our Neptune (732-455-8700) offices. Early detection of this potential complication of diabetes increases the potential for reducing and delaying the progression of diabetes. Sudomotor testing involves stimulating the sweat glands and dysfunction in this area is one of the earliest detectable neurophysiologic abnormalities. The test is non-invasive, quick, and painless. Performed in our office and is also covered by insurance.