How does diabetes affect my feet?
Every cell in your body needs sugar (glucose). When you have diabetes, though, glucose levels can get so high, sugar becomes more harmful than helpful. The sugar surges damage blood vessels, which reduces blood flow, particularly to your feet.
Between blood sugar fluctuations and minimized circulation, diabetes can increase your risk of:
- Toenail fungus
- Dry, cracked skin
- Slow-healing wounds
- Numbness or tingling
- Ingrown toenail infections
- Nerve damage (neuropathy)
If left untreated, a minor cut or wound can quickly become seriously infected, and turn into a limb-threatening diabetic ulcer. Since diabetes is detrimental to the health of your feet, it’s important to build a lasting relationship with a dedicated podiatrist.
What is diabetic foot care?
At the office of Errol Gindi, D.P.M., you can expect comprehensive diabetic foot care and preventive solutions, so you can maintain healthy feet. In general, Dr. Gindi wants to examine you annually, although he could schedule more frequent visits if you’re newly diabetic or have a history of diabetic wounds.
During your diabetic foot care exams, Dr. Gindi may:
- Check for signs of nerve damage
- Get you fitted for diabetic shoes or orthotics
- Trim your toenails or remove corns or calluses
If you have a wound, Dr. Gindi can treat it through an in-office wound debridement procedure.
Do I need treatment for diabetic wounds?
Yes! Dr. Gindi can treat all wounds — minor or major — and counsel you on how to protect your wound as it heals. Your diabetic foot wound treatment may involve:
- Removing damaged skin or ingrown toenails
- Off-loading pressure with orthotics
- Applying topical medication
- Laser therapy
In many cases, a recommendation for diabetic-approved shoes is made to prevent future foot wounds and to help with off-loading weight if you have a current wound. Dr. Gindi can measure your feet and dispense diabetic shoes, which both private insurance and Medicare often cover. Modern diabetic shoes are fashion-forward and come in many designs, so Dr. Gindi can help you select footwear that best suits your lifestyle.
Dr. Gindi also talks with you about preventive measures you can take to lower your risk of future diabetic wounds, such as wearing socks and applying a moisturizer daily. He spends time explaining what to watch out for when it comes to diabetic foot wounds — like redness or drainage in your socks — in addition to answering all of your questions.
You can receive the personalized diabetic foot care management you need at the office of Errol Gindi, D.P.M. Book your diabetes exam online or call the clinic directly.
