Routine Care, Incredible Results: Podiatry and Diabetic Management
Diabetes is a complex condition that demands careful management. One overlooked issue can lead to serious impact on your body overall, and your feet are a notable example of this: high blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to serious foot complications if left unaddressed.
Fortunately, routine podiatric care dramatically improves outcomes for those with diabetes. To boost awareness of that, Cypress Foot & Ankle Center has put together some of the most straightforward strategies, risks, and solutions regarding diabetes in the blog below. Read on to learn how you can stay one step ahead of any complications, courtesy of our expert team!
Understanding the Risks
Diabetes can affect the body dramatically, increasing your risk of complications like:
- Peripheral Neuropathy:
- This nerve damage can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in your feet, making you less aware of injuries or infections.
- Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD):
- PVD reduces blood flow to your feet, hindering wound healing and increasing the risk of severe complications.
- Foot Ulcers:
- Reduced sensation and circulation can make it easier to develop ulcers (open sores) that are slow to heal and prone to infection.
- Amputation:
- In severe cases, ulcers or wounds might lead to amputation.
The Power of Routine Podiatric Care
Regular problems can quickly spiral out of control for those with diabetes. The good news? Regular visits to a podiatrist can make a huge difference!
- According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), people with diabetes who receive regular foot care from a podiatrist have a significantly lower risk of amputation.
- By some estimates, routine podiatrist visits can reduce said risk at rates between 45% to 85%!
A podiatrist can help in all kinds of ways, providing access to:
- Comprehensive Foot Exams:
- Your podiatrist will conduct thorough foot exams to check for nerve damage, circulation problems, or early signs of complications.
- Education and Empowerment:
- A podiatrist will educate you on proper foot care techniques, including daily inspections, hygiene, nail trimming, and footwear choices.
- Specialized Treatments:
- Podiatrists offer a range of treatments for diabetic foot problems, including wound care and debridement, topical medications, antibiotics, and custom orthotics.
Take Control of Your Foot Health
Emerging research indicates significant links between depression and diabetes that warrant further exploration, but unfortunately, many struggle with the condition in silence. If you or someone you know is having a tough time managing diabetes, please let them know that we’d be happy to help! Even small steps can make a huge difference.
Whether you’re experiencing pain, concerned about a deformity, or simply seeking preventative care, Cypress Foot & Ankle Center offers a wide range of services to address all your foot and ankle needs. While we focus on nonsurgical treatments, our team also provides advanced surgical procedures when necessary, using the latest technologies to ensure superior outcomes. If you’re in need, call (281) 377-4040, or contact us online!
