Diabetic foot problems can become so severe that you risk losing a toe or foot. Because diabetes leads to a host of complications in your lower extremities, the compassionate podiatrists at Foot Pain Doctor NY offer comprehensive diabetic feet management in Midtown East, New York City. If you have diabetes and need a routine evaluation, or have signs of a foot wound, schedule an exam online today, or call the office directly to schedule.
Diabetic Feet
How does diabetes affect my feet?
Your feet are prone to poor circulation, simply because they’re so far away from your heart. Plus, your circulatory system has to fight the effects of gravity to get blood to circulate, which further leads to decreased blood flow. Since diabetes damages vessels and tissues and can inhibit blood flow even more, you’re prone to developing serious problems in your feet and ankles.
Decreased blood supply means that your skin dries out easily, which can lead to cracking, ingrown toenails, and wounds. Because of the limited blood supply in your feet, these wounds stay open for a long time, leaving you prone to infection.
Additionally, blood sugar surges can damage nerves, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. This can cause numbness that can minimize your ability to feel wounds on your feet.
When should I see a podiatrist if I have diabetes?
The top-ranked podiatry team at Foot Pain Doctor NY encourage you to come in for a diabetic feet evaluation once or twice a year for preventive care. Outside of these routine foot exams, it’s important to book an exam right away if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Foot warts
- Ingrown toenails
- Corns or calluses
- Numbness or tingling
- Swelling or tenderness
- Redness or inflammation
- Drainage or blood in your socks
- Discolored, brittle, or thickened toenails
These are signs that you may have a diabetic foot wound or that you’re at risk of developing a wound. With a team of diabetic feet experts on staff at Foot Pain Doctor NY, you can feel confident that you’re in entirely capable hands.
What happens during a diabetic feet exam?
A diabetic foot exam is a comprehensive evaluation that involves checking your feet and ankles, administering any necessary treatment, and counseling you on diabetic foot care at home. Depending on your medical history and current health, your podiatrist at Foot Pain Doctor NY may:
- Conduct nerve testing
- Remove corns or calluses
- Perform ingrown toenail surgery
- Treat wounds or ulcers (wound debridement)
- Treat infections, such as fungal nails or plantar warts
The overall goal of diabetic feet care at Foot Pain Doctor NY is to prevent wounds and teach you about warning signs of complications in an effort to prevent amputation.
Book your diabetic feet evaluation at Foot Pain Doctor NY directly through the website. You can also call the office to speak with a team member.