Diabetic Foot Care That Protects You

What You Need To Know

Understanding your risk is the first step toward preventing serious diabetic foot complications.

Preventing Diabetic Foot Complications

Diabetic foot complications are the leading cause of non-traumatic lower-limb amputations in the United States and are the most common cause of hospitalization for people with diabetes. This is truly unfortunate, as 85% of amputations can be prevented. Research has shown that a single visit to a podiatrist can reduce your risk of amputation by 29%.

Common warning signs include open sores or ulcers on the feet, cuts or blisters that are slow to heal, changes in skin color or temperature, numbness or tingling, and areas of pressure or callus buildup. Because reduced sensation is common with diabetes, small problems can progress quickly without being noticed.

Risk factors include poorly controlled blood sugar, peripheral neuropathy, reduced circulation, a history of previous ulcers or amputation, foot deformities, and improper footwear. Any one of these can raise your risk of developing an ulcer, and combinations raise that risk further.

The process is simple yet complete. You come in for an initial risk assessment. We perform a history and examination to determine your risk for developing an ulcer (an open sore that can lead to amputation), then create a prevention program for you to follow. Some people only need to be seen once a year, while others may need visits every few months. If you notice a sore, blister, or any change on your foot, seek care right away so we can evaluate it before it becomes something more serious.

Wound Care, Shoes, and Coordinated Support

For people with diabetes, seeking immediate treatment for sores on your feet can greatly diminish the chance of infection and potential amputation. Our providers are well versed in the management of diabetic foot complications, and treatment plans emphasize limb salvage, reconstruction, and the overall prevention of diabetic-related disorders. Should you find yourself at the hospital, we can assure you that you are in good hands.

As a provider of diabetic and therapeutic shoes, we are experienced at fitting shoes and molding inserts to accommodate your feet, which can dramatically reduce your risk of foot complications. Often, these shoes and inserts are covered by your insurance with little to no out-of-pocket expense. Insurance carriers know the importance of appropriate shoes to prevent the more expensive complications that can result without them.

Our offices also offer custom fitting of diabetic shoes, custom orthotics, and braces designed to correct an abnormal or irregular walking pattern. These devices work alongside routine podiatric care to offload pressure points and protect vulnerable areas of the foot.

We communicate with your primary care physician and have quick access to the hospital in case complications arise, so your diabetes care team stays connected and informed. We expect you to keep your toes, and you should expect the same. With consistent monitoring, the right footwear, and prompt attention to any changes, most patients can avoid the serious complications that make diabetic foot disease so dangerous.