Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetic patients require a team approach to control their glucose levels and maximize their general health and the quality of their lives. Podiatrists are an essential part of that team. Diabetics are well served by taking diligent care of their feet; in this instance “an ounce of prevention” can truly be life (and limb) saving.
Most of the problems diabetics encounter with their feet are the result of vascular and neurological problems that are associated with the disease. Diabetics are more prone to small vessel disease, and can have a compromised circulatory status that can delay healing. Nerve conduction problems called diabetic neuropathies can cause tingling, numbness, and an absence of feeling in the diabetic foot. A patient who has severe neuropathy could even step on a nail and not feel it. Compromised circulation and impaired neurologic issues place diabetics at high risk for infections and ulcerations, and which can lead to serious, even fatal complications. Other foot problems like bunions and hammer toes create pressure areas on the feet that can cause the skin to break down and ulcerate. A corn or a callus can have the same risks if untreated.
Because diabetic patients are so susceptible to these issues, it is imperative that they monitor their own feet on a daily basis, and seek regular diabetic foot care from a Podiatrist. Routine foot screenings, good personal hygiene, and keeping blood sugar levels stable and under control goes a long way to minimize risks with diabetic patients. As part of a regimen of prevention, diabetic shoes and socks can also help protect the patients feet when they walk (see below).
The doctors at Country Foot Care offer extensive diabetic foot education and full service diabetic foot care. By practicing prevention, most diabetics can minimize the risks associated with the diabetic foot and have an active lifestyle.
Diabetic Shoe Program
Diabetic shoes are available in our office for all Medicare qualified patients with compromised circulation or neurologic symptoms. Some private insurances also pay for diabetic shoes. Diabetic shoes come in a variety of styles and colors, including boots and sneakers. Different styles are available for both males and females. The shoes also come with heat moldable inserts that accommodate each individuals specific foot needs.
Diabetic shoes provide extra depth and width in the toe and forefoot areas, which helps to prevent pressure on swollen feet, bunions, hammertoes, and other common foot problems associated with diabetic patients. Diabetic Socks which are seamless and padded, are also available at our office. The dye in our colored socks doesn’t bleed out of the fabric, reducing your risk of foot infection. Nano Bamboo Charcoal Fibers release Far Infrared Rays that may promote blood circulation and anion production, which has health benefits. Nano Bamboo Charcoal is also a natural deodorizer. It’s a sustainable, chemical-free way to take care of your feet. All socks are available in a range of men’s and women’s sizes.
