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Category: Diabetic Foot Care

Podiatrist applying cream to a patient's foot for foot health.
13Nov

It is important to treat the foot injuries right away if you suffer from diabetes because even the smallest wounds can quickly turn serious. The wounds lead to sores and ulcers when left untreated and that can mean losing the foot, or in extreme cases, the entire leg. The problem is further compounded by the fact that wounds take longer to heal in people suffering from diabetes because of the poor blood flow to the feet. There’s also an onset of nerve damage, called neuropathy, which stops any feeling in the feet. Since you are unable to feel anything in your feet, you will not even get to know that you are hurt. So, even the minor cuts can quickly turn into something major.

 

Podiatrist applying cream to a patient's foot for foot health.

The best thing you can do to avoid wounds is to take the preventive approach by keeping the feet protected and healthy. Here are the top four ways through which you can do that:

Run regular checks on your feet

If you have lost sensations on your feet due to diabetes, you will have to check your feet daily to know if something is wrong. It might be hard for you to check the bottom of your feet. In that case, use a mirror or ask a friend or your spouse to help you out.

Wash and dry your feet properly

At the time of taking a bath, you should soap the feet with lukewarm water and dry them well with a soft towel. Make sure to dry between and behind your toes. Moisture that stays trapped there can be harmful because it can lead to sores. Use creams and lotions to make sure that the skin of your feet is adequately hydrated because sores might also develop from the dryness of your feet.

Comfort comes first

Keep in your mind that comfort is the key to making your feet happy. Wear comfortable footwear and soft socks to keep the feet cushioned. Narrow, pointy shoes with high heels are not for your delicate feet. Your doctor might ask you to wear special shoes. Otherwise, you can wear something with added padding, like sneakers, to keep the feet comfortable.

Trimming the toenails

It is important for people with diabetes to see a podiatrist regularly. He will cut your toenails, if needed, as a part of foot wound care. Podiatrists, or foot doctors as they are popularly known as, usually do this for people who suffer from neuropathy or have had foot ulcers earlier. It is better to get your nails trimmed by an expert, rather than going to a salon, if you have diabetes.

If you get wounded accidentally, cleanse it first under running water. Put antibiotic ointment on the wound and cover it with a clean bandage. Visit your nearest podiatrist as soon as you can for further treatment.

If you are looking for quality diabetic wound care from experienced podiatrists, you can get in touch with DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center. You will find effective treatment under the careful supervision of the experts.

Close-up of a diabetic foot with severe ulcer and infection.
20Sep

diabetic foot

 Diabetes is a disease that results in inadequate and faulty production or less sensitivity to insulin. Insulin is an important hormone in the body whose function is to assist the cells in absorbing sugar from the blood so that it can be utilized for producing energy.   When this whole process gets disturbed or does not work properly, then the sugar keeps circulating in the blood which leads to various health issues.

 If high levels of sugar continue to persist for a longer period of time, it can harm many parts of the body including the feet. According to a recent survey, diabetes is accountable for causing over 50 percent of foot amputations in the United States. People suffering   from diabetes are   more susceptible to developing foot problems that result due to high levels of blood sugar. Some of the most common foot problems that occur due to diabetes are peripheral vascular disease and diabetic neuropathy. Both these problems are     known to result in severe complications

 The foot problems that are triggered due to diabetes

 The two major foot problems that are caused as a result of diabetes are:

  • Peripheral Vascular Disease-

Diabetes results in alterations in the blood vessels especially the arteries. In this disease, the fatty deposits cause an obstruction in the blood vessels beyond the heart and brain. Peripheral Vascular disease has the tendency to affect the blood vessels leading back and forth from the ends like the hands and feet, minimizing the flow of the blood to both the parts. The decreased level of blood flow can result in wounds that recover at a slow pace, pain, and infection. This disease can develop a serious infection and in such a case, a footdoctor in Houston at DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center may recommend foot amputation. A person suffering from peripheral vascular disease is also prone to develop ulcers and gangrene (a condition that is caused due to the death of the tissue because of the lack of blood.)

  • Diabetic Neuropathy –

Over a period of time, diabetes can result in nerve damage that causes numbness in the foot. Such a condition makes it more difficult for a person to feel sensation in the hands and feet. Diabetic neuropathy also makes it challenging for a diabetic patient to feel any infection, irritation, or soreness at the extremities. They may also not be able to observe when their shoes are rubbing. Diabetic neuropathy can result in a greater risk of blisters, cuts, and sores.

If a person suffering from diabetes does not undergo treatment for the condition, then it can lead to the development of ulcers, infections, and even gangrene.

Symptoms of foot problems

According to DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center’s podiatrists in Houston, foot symptoms that result due to diabetes are as follows:

1) Wounds with drainage

2) Stained socks

3) Severe tingling

4) Blisters without any pain

5) Red striations

6) Numbness or lack of sensation

7)  Temperature variations and skin discoloration

In case of an infection, a diabetic patient may also experience:

1) Chills

2) Shaking

3) Fever

4) High blood sugar levels

5) Redness

Treatment for foot problems

Different surgical and non-surgical options are available for the treatment of foot problems:

  • Non-surgical treatment-

A Houston podiatrist will initially try to treat the condition without any surgery by cleaning and dressing the wound, wearing a total contact cast or cast boot, or carefully observing any gangrene till self-amputation occurs.

  • Surgical treatment –

It includes the removal of dead tissues, amputations, surgical stabilization, arterial bypass, and endovascular surgery.

It is important that you take care of foot hygiene. You can do this by taking steps like washing the feet daily, wearing supportive shoes, trimming nails cautiously, controlling blood sugar levels, going for regular foot examinations, and caring for bunions as well as corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Houston,TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

 

22Oct

Millions of people are affected by diabetes each year. Diabetes damages blood vessels in all parts of the body, especially the feet. The legs and feet may develop slow blood flow, which causes neuropathy, or nerve damage. Once a diabetic patient develops neuropathy, it is important that the feet are well taken care of. Otherwise, the lower limbs may have to be amputated. This only happens in drastic cases, but it shows how seriously diabetic foot care should be taken.

It is very important to always wash and dry the feet thoroughly, especially in between the toes, if you’re a diabetic. Secondly, examining your feet and toes for redness or sores must be done, even if you do not feel pain.  You may also want to examine your feet from the bottom. Try to avoid wearing colored socks to prevent infections that may occur from the dye. Well-fitting socks are also highly recommended.

A diabetic’s physician should always monitor their blood levels to test how well blood sugars are being maintained. In addition to giving advice about everyday eating habits and foot care, a physician may prescribe medicine to help with the diabetic patient’s neuropathy. It is also advised to see a podiatrist if experiencing any feet conditions. Toenails may also need to be taken care of by a podiatrist. This prevents patients from cutting too deeply around their cuticles, which can lead to infection.

A person can take care of their feet at home by following the instructions of their physician. Using creams on one’s feet is also an effective way to heal dryness. Proceed with caution when using tools to remove calluses, as severe diabetics may not be able to feel pain on their feet. If any complications arise do not hesitate to contact a podiatrist.

On a daily basis, diabetic feet must be checked. If you are ever concerned about something, contact your health care professional. You never want to wait until a wound becomes too severe to treat. If left untreated, gangrene may develop. Gangrene is a serious infection that can lead to sepsis or amputation. It is also important for diabetics to be on the lookout for ulcers. Ulcers are sores that develop from tissue loss on the skin. They can be quite painful and require intensive treatment. Early treatment and everyday inspection are imperative to staying healthy.

Close-up of healthy feet on wooden surface, foot care focus.
22Oct

Close-up of healthy feet on wooden surface, foot care focus.

Research has shown the possibility may increase for significant foot damage to occur in diabetic patients. These ailments may include the amputation of a toe or a foot, which may typically be a result of an infected foot ulcer. Some patients may notice a change in the structure of the foot,and this may be referred to as Charcot’s foot. When the glucose levels in the blood are maintained properly, diabetic conditions may be easier to control. Additionally, research has shown the importance of practicing daily foot hygiene, and this may be helpful in preventing uncomfortable and painful foot ailments from developing. It may be common for the diabetic patient to undergo diabetic neuropathy in which symptoms may include experiencing numbness and tingling in the feet. This may make it difficult to feel any cuts and sores that may be present. If you are diabetic, it’s important to be under the care of a podiatrist who can properly advise you on the best treatment options.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr.Eji Shobowale from DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Cypress, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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