Why Diabetics Should Take Extra Care of Their Feet

Diabetes can be a devastating disease, especially when it’s not properly managed. A diabetic’s legs and feet are at special risk for damage that can lead to disability, limb loss, and other potentially life-threatening complications.

At Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons, we offer comprehensive diabetic foot care to prevent diabetes-related conditions from developing.

Kaveh Panahi, DPM, and our podiatry specialists work closely with you on a care plan to keep your legs, feet, and toes healthy. We provide routine foot checks, custom orthotics, and other preventive services tailored to your individual needs and health challenges.

The effects of diabetes on your feet

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body processes sugar from your diet. Insulin, a hormone, is responsible for converting sugar (glucose) into the energy you need to function. When you have diabetes, your body doesn’t make insulin or produce enough of the hormone to keep sugar levels well-controlled.

As a result, your blood glucose levels remain high, which can lead to nerve damage – a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. People with diabetic neuropathy can lose sensations in their limbs and be unaware of cuts and other injuries until they become infected.

Your feet and toes are at high risk for injuries that go unnoticed. Even a small cut on the foot can become infected if not promptly treated. Additionally, diabetes affects the healing process of wounds, and a small injury can quickly progress into an ulcer that doesn’t heal.

As diabetic ulcers worsen, tissue death can occur. In some cases, surgery is necessary to remove dead tissue, toes, or feet to prevent life-threatening complications.

Proactive care is vital for those with diabetes

Our Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons team focuses on preventive strategies that reduce the need for invasive treatments like surgery in people with diabetes. One of the most important preventive measures you can take is regular foot checks.

We offer in-office foot checks that give Dr. Panahi an opportunity to inspect all areas of your feet, including in between your toes. He looks for any skin damage that can progress into an open wound, so you can start treatment right away. You also learn how to complete routine foot checks at home between visits.

Other preventive strategies that are essential to caring for diabetic feet include:

Good foot hygiene

We provide educational resources that teach you how to care for your feet properly when you have diabetes. Good foot hygiene includes washing and drying your feet daily, applying moisturizer to prevent cracks in the skin, and changing out of damp or sweaty socks and shoes.

You also need to trim your toenails properly – trim straight across and file away sharp edges – to prevent ingrown toenails.

High-quality, supportive shoes

Friction from shoes that are too loose can rub the skin and lead to an open wound. Select shoes that have plenty of room for your toes but also fit your foot comfortably.

We can also prescribe shoe inserts and other custom orthotics that support your feet and ankles and protect them from injuries.

Stay on track with diabetes management

If not managed properly, diabetes can cause a variety of serious health complications and lead to premature death.

Be sure to meet with your primary care provider regularly and take medications as directed to keep your diabetes well-controlled.

Call or message Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons in Peoria and Phoenix, Arizona, today to schedule a diabetic foot evaluation.