Diabetes is a widespread health issue reaching global proportions, affecting millions of individuals across the world. It impacts the body in numerous ways, often leading to complications that include problems with the feet. According to podiatric professionals at the Birmingham, Alabama-based Podiatry Associates, while many people know a little bit about how diabetes affects various bodily systems, fewer people recognize the essential role podiatry plays in managing diabetes. 

Why Diabetic Foot Care Should Be a Priority?

Possible problems that may arise for those with diabetes include the following: 

• Peripheral neuropathy, which refers to nerve damage, can result in pain or numbness in one or both feet, making it difficult for people with diabetes to detect injuries. This can also cause them to miss the early stages of the development of deformities in the foot, such as bunions and hammertoes.
• Poor blood circulation impairs healing, adding to your risk of infections, ulcers, and other complications. 
• Dryness or changes to your skin. If the skin cracks, it can become infected if not properly treated.

Why are Routine Visits to a Podiatrist Important?

Podiatrists are trained to perform comprehensive foot examinations, serving as the first line of defense for people with diabetes who wish to avoid common complications. These podiatric options highlight the importance of routine diabetic foot exams -

• Circulation Evaluations - High blood sugar often impairs circulation, particularly in the lower extremities, which are already fighting gravity. Podiatrists perform various diagnostic tests to evaluate the circulation in your feet.
• Nerve Sensitivity Tests - These can evaluate foot sensitivity and reflexes. By providing early identification, patients can avoid the risk of severe complications.
• Management of Foot Ulcers - 
  • Cleaning and dressing wounds.
  • Monitoring your healing’s progress.
  • Managing potential infections.
  • Providing guidance regarding appropriate footwear.
• Pain Management, which includes - 
  • Prescription meds or topical creams. 
  • Exercise/lifestyle modifications.
  • Recommending non-pharmaceutical physiotherapy.
• Advice Regarding Foot Hygiene - 
  • Daily self-exams.
  • Appropriate footwear.
  • Blood sugar control strategies.
  • Lifestyle modifications – i.e., exercise and diet.
• Advice and prescriptions for custom-made orthotics.  

 In more serious or advanced circumstances, surgery may also be considered. 

Contact Your Local Podiatrist

As a leading provider of comprehensive podiatric and diabetic foot care services, the professionals at Podiatry Associates possess the skills and resources to manage your diabetic foot care. Contact a member of our staff at either Alabama location – at 205-933-9595 (Birmingham), 256-249-2212 (Sylacauga), by email or online.