Diabetic Foot Care

Foot complications are one of the most common (yet preventable) complications of diabetes. That’s why the experienced team of podiatrists at Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates P.C. in Park City and Chicago, Illinois, offer comprehensive diabetic foot care to protect your feet and help you keep moving. To learn more about how you can prevent or treat foot problems due to diabetes, call now for an appointment or book one online when you’re ready.

What is diabetes?

​​Diabetes is a chronic condition where your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t effectively use it. That leads to excess sugar levels in your blood, which, over time, can damage many parts of your body, especially your feet.

When your blood sugar levels are continuously elevated, it can:

• Damage your nerves (diabetic neuropathy)
• Lead to poor circulation
• Slow down your body’s innate healing processes
• Increase your risk of infections

When it comes to your feet, these problems lead to complications that can start small but escalate quickly.

How does diabetes affect your feet?

Your feet are particularly vulnerable to problems because they’re far from your heart and not top of mind when you’re thinking of daily care and hygiene. Common foot issues closely associated with diabetes are:

Poor circulation

High sugar levels cause your arteries to narrow and harden, leading to impaired blood flow and a serious complication called peripheral artery disease (PAD). 

Tingling and numbness

Over time, chronically elevated blood sugar damages nerves in your hands, arms, legs, and feet. Nerve damage decreases your ability to feel pain or the sensation of hot and cold temperatures.

Higher risk of infections and ulcers

A blister, cut, or sore on your foot can quickly become a serious infection that spreads to your tissues and bones.

Changes in your skin texture or foot form

Dry, cracked skin is common with diabetes, as are changes to your muscles, foot alignment, and gait, which can cause bunions or hammertoe to develop.

What does diabetic foot care include?

Diabetic foot care is all about prevention, early detection, and proper care at home. Your podiatrist at Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates P.C. helps you keep your feet healthy with:

• Comprehensive foot exams annually unless you’ve had issues and need more frequent visits
• Nail and skin care to prevent ingrown toenails, blisters, scrapes, and cracks
• Treatment for ulcers, calluses, or signs of infection before they worsen
• Guidance on proper footwear (including custom orthotics) to avoid pressure points and protect sensitive areas
• Foot health education on how to check and care for your feet at home

If you have diabetes, foot health should be a top priority. Call now to schedule your diabetic foot care appointment or use the online scheduling option at your convenience.