What is diabetic foot care?

Diabetic foot care diagnoses, treats, and prevents foot problems caused by diabetes. If you have diabetes, you’re more likely to experience poor circulation and nerve damage. If the nerves in your feet don’t work properly, you might step on something sharp and not realize it. Left untreated, that wound might become infected, resulting in gangrene.

Diabetic foot care combines regular checkups, preventive screenings, and healthy lifestyle changes to keep your feet, toes, and ankles healthy for years to come.

Who can benefit from diabetic foot care?

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, you can benefit from diabetic foot care. Make an appointment with Dr. Shelton at Alpine Foot & Ankle if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Discolored skin
• Diminished ability to sense hot and cold
• Losing hair on your legs or feet
• Numbness
• Pain
• Tingling
• Slow-healing wounds
• Redness

You should also consider diabetic foot care if you experience an ingrown toenail or toenail fungus.

What does diabetic foot care involve?

At Alpine Foot & Ankle, Dr. Shelton tailors diabetic foot care to each patient’s needs. After an exam and review of your medical records, he might recommend:

Healthy lifestyle changes

There’s no cure for diabetes, but by living a healthy lifestyle, you can reduce the risk of various foot problems, including diabetic neuropathy, slow-healing wounds, and ingrown toenails. Usually, Dr. Shelton recommends eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and wearing comfortable shoes that provide plenty of support.

It’s also important to check your blood sugar regularly, monitor your feet and toes daily, and visit Alpine Foot & Ankle at least once a year for a podiatry exam.

Podiatry exams

If you have diabetes, you’re more likely to experience foot problems like ingrown toenails and athlete’s foot. Though there’s no way to prevent these issues entirely, routine checkups at Alpine Foot & Ankle can significantly reduce your risk. Podiatry exams also present an opportunity to ask questions and build a relationship with Dr. Shelton.

Wound care

If you develop a slow-healing wound, like a diabetic ulcer, it’s vital to seek treatment immediately. Early intervention can prevent infection and encourage your body’s natural healing process.

At Alpine Foot & Ankle, Dr. Shelton specializes in diabetic wound care. He can safely debride dead skin and tissue and apply topical ointments or dressings to promote healing.

How can I reduce the risk of diabetes-related foot problems?

There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of diabetes-related foot problems, including:

• Checking your feet daily
• Keeping your toenails trimmed
• Maintaining blood flow to your feet
• Smoothing corns and calluses
• Always wearing shoes and socks
• Washing your feet

It’s also important to avoid certain activities, like smoking and walking around barefoot.

To explore the benefits of diabetic foot care, make an appointment at Alpine Foot & Ankle by calling the office or booking online today.