Those who have diabetes already know the immense importance of monitoring their blood sugar levels. However, they may not understand the importance of caring for their feet. Without proper management, diabetes can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. However, it can also lead to serious conditions, including peripheral vascular disease and diabetic neuropathy.

These diseases can eventually lead to poor blood circulation and nerve damage, bolstering the risk of foot issues, like bunions and ingrown toenails.Therefore, diabetic foot care is a necessity, as the feet can be fatal. 

Issues, like hammertoes and plantar warts, may be minor for most people, as long as they are treated. However, since peripheral vascular disease and diabetic neuropathy may impact the body’s ability to heal from infections or feel the issues in the first place, those with diabetes have an increased risk of dangerous foot complications, such as infection and amputation.

To detect and treat any issues as soon as they emerge, regular trips to the podiatrist are vital. Routine foot care for those patients with diabetes is usually scheduled at three month intervals. Doing so will help avoid more severe problems down the road. In addition to visiting the podiatrist regularly, those with diabetes should inspect their feet and toenails each day. Check for signs of calluses, redness, or blisters, and visit the podiatrist as soon as they appear. Since foot problems for those with diabetes can quickly escalate, prompt care is imperative.

You can also help promote a healthy foot environment by wearing properly fitting shoes, washing your feet daily, as well as exercising and eating as directed by your doctor. When you’re sitting or lying down, promote the flow of blood to your feet by elevating them above your head. Maintaining healthy glucose levels is also vital to diabetic foot care.

Diabetes can be life-threatening, but it doesn’t have to be. Staying on top of diabetic foot care will help you lead a long and healthy life. To learn more about caring for your feet, contact one of our offices in Norwich or North Windham. Call Eastern CT Foot Specialists PC  in Norwich at (860) 887-3538 or North Windham at (860) 456-9593 or visit the website for details.