Diabetic Foot Care Specialist

What are diabetic foot problems?

Uncontrolled blood sugar related to diabetes can cause foot problems and complications associated with them. Diabetes may cause nerve damage in your feet, which can lead to burning, stinging, tingling, pain, numbness, and weakness. 

Poor blood flow and sores can also develop and cause foot problems in people with diabetes. Diabetic foot care reduces your risk of serious problems, including the need for amputation.

What are different types of diabetic foot problems?

Some of the many diabetic foot problems you may encounter with untreated diabetes include:

Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetic nerve damage or diabetic neuropathy can cause a loss of feeling in your feet. This increases your risk of foot injuries, open sores (ulcers), and infection.

Skin changes

Diabetes can cause the skin on your feet to become dry, peel, or crack. This increases your risk of sores and infection. Calluses, or tough skin patches, are more common in people with diabetes.

Poor circulation

Poor blood flow decreases your body’s ability to heal properly and fight infection. Because of this, suboptimal blood circulation associated with diabetes increases your risk of foot problems.

How does my podiatrist diagnose diabetic foot problems?

To diagnose diabetic neuropathy, ulcers, and other foot problems related to diabetes, your podiatrist reviews your medical history and symptoms. 

They carefully examine your legs and feet, assessing muscle tone, strength, muscle reflexes, and touch or vibration sensitivity. Your specialist may complete nerve conduction testing, muscle response testing, or special blood pressure tests to develop the most appropriate treatment.

What is diabetic foot care?

Diabetic foot care at Michigan Foot & Ankle Institute, PC, includes treatment that reduces unpleasant symptoms associated with diabetic foot problems – and your risk of serious complications. Examples include:

• Wound care for ulcers
• Skin grafting
• Custom orthotics
• Medications
• Minor surgical procedures
• Amputation in severe cases
• Diabetic shoes

Diabetic shoes are specialized shoes made for people with diabetes. They cushion your feet to provide superior arch, heel, and ankle support and alleviate painful pressure points. 

Maintaining optimal blood sugar control reduces your risk of diabetic foot problems. Other things you can do at home include wearing comfortable shoes, controlling blood pressure, eating healthy foods, getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and not using tobacco products.

If you have diabetes and notice changes in the way your feet look or feel, schedule an appointment with Michigan Foot & Ankle Institute, PC, by phone or book online today.