Foot Problems Associated With Diabetes
Foot problems that are a concern for people with diabetes include:
Neuropathy.
Diabetes can cause nerve damage known as neuropathy. This can lead to tingling, numbness, or even pain in the feet. It can also reduce sensation in the feet, making it difficult to detect cuts, blisters, and other injuries.
Poor circulation.
High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels in the feet, leading to poor circulation. This can cause wounds or sores that don't heal properly, and make it difficult for your body to fight infection in your feet.
Dry skin.
Diabetes can also cause the skin to become dry and cracked. This can lead to painful skin cracks that increase the risk of infection.
Foot deformities.
Diabetes can also cause foot deformities, such as hammertoes and bunions. These can make it difficult to properly fit shoes and lead to further complications if left untreated.
Ulcers or sores.
Poor circulation, dry skin, and neuropathy can all lead to the development of ulcers or sores on the feet. These are particularly dangerous for people with diabetes as they can quickly become infected and lead to serious complications.
In extreme cases, diabetic foot problems can lead to amputation of the toes or foot.
How Our Podiatrists Can Help
Regularly seeing a podiatrist is important for diabetics to ensure that their feet remain healthy and free of any complications. Here are some services our podiatrists can provide:
Provide education on the effects of diabetes.
Our podiatrists can teach patients about how diabetes affects their feet and what steps they should take to reduce the risk of further complications.
Diagnose and treat conditions of the feet.
Our podiatrists can help detect various types of foot problems, such as ulcers and infections, which may develop due to diabetes. They are also trained in providing treatment for those conditions.
Make sure your shoes fit properly.
Our podiatrists can measure your feet and recommend custom-made shoes or orthotics that will provide better support and reduce the risk of blisters and other irritation.
Provide preventive care.
Our podiatrists can provide various types of preventive care, such as regular foot inspections, to reduce the risk of further diabetic complications. This includes advice on proper footwear and ways to prevent injuries from occurring.
Provide wound care.
If a diabetic develops a foot ulcer, our podiatrists can provide wound care and prescribe medications to reduce the risk of infection.
Help with pain relief.
Our podiatrists can provide treatments that can reduce pain in the feet associated with diabetes. This includes prescribing medications and recommending physical therapy.
Are You Suffering From Diabetic Feet In The Caldwell Or Meridian, Idaho Area?
If you're suffering from diabetic feet you owe it to yourself to speak with our experienced podiatrists as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact us online or call our office directly at 208.855.5955 to schedule your appointment. We service all areas surrounding Meridian, Idaho as well as all areas in the Caldwell, Idaho area. We look forward to helping you!