Diabetic Foot Care

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that causes higher than normal blood sugar levels. The sugar in your blood, also called glucose, provides energy to all the cells in your body.

The hormone insulin, which your pancreas makes, helps get the sugar from your blood into your cell. You may develop diabetes if your pancreas can’t make enough insulin (type 1 diabetes) or the insulin it does make isn’t working correctly (type 2 diabetes). 

Too much sugar in your blood damages your blood vessels and organs and increases your risk of developing other health complications, including poor circulation and diabetic neuropathy.

Diabetic neuropathy affects the function of your nerves, including the nerves in your feet, and may impair your ability to feel pain. 

Why do I need diabetic foot care?

Diabetic foot ulcers are a common complication of diabetes, which is why you need diabetic foot care. Diabetic foot ulcers often develop from poor blood sugar control, coupled with diabetic neuropathy and poor blood circulation. 

Without proper foot care, you may develop a non-healing wound that leads to an infection and limb amputation. 

What can I expect during diabetic foot care?

You can expect a comprehensive evaluation when you come in to see the experts at Diabetic Foot and Wound Center for your diabetic foot care. The specifics of your appointment may depend on the health of your feet and your podiatry needs.

During a general diabetic foot care appointment, your podiatrist reviews your symptoms, if any, medical history, usual diet, and the medications and supplements you take. They may also review your home blood glucose tests.

Your podiatrist then evaluates your feet and may cut your toenails, trim excess skin from your calluses, and remove painful corns. To assess circulation and nerve health, your provider may request diagnostic tests, such as:

• Vascular ultrasound
• Angiography
• Nerve conduction study (NCS) and electromyography (EMG)
• Blood tests

After the exam, your podiatrist provides specific recommendations to help you maintain good foot health at home. 

What if I need immediate diabetic foot care?

If you have diabetes and concerns about a wound or infection in your feet, contact Diabetic Foot and Wound Center right away. The wound care specialists are available seven days a week and you don’t even need an appointment to get the care you need - walk-ins are welcome.

Wounds don’t wait, so neither should you. Diabetic Foot and Wound Center offers advanced wound care treatments, including various debridement techniques, along with hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

To schedule diabetic foot care from an expert, contact Diabetic Foot and Wound Center by phone or online today.