Diabetes-Related Foot Treatments in Seaford & Millsboro
People with diabetes are prone to having foot problems, often due to nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation (peripheral vascular disease). Neuropathy causes a loss of feeling in your feet affecting your ability to feel pain and discomfort. Poor circulation affects your ability to heal.
Recommendations for diabetics:
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Inspect your feet daily
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bathe feet in lukewarm, never hot, water
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Moisturize your feet but not between your toes
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Never treat corns or calluses yourself
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Wear clean, dry socks
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Never walk barefoot
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Keep your blood sugar levels under control
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Get periodic foot exams
Diabetes-Related Foot and Leg Problems:
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Infections and ulcers (sores)
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Corns and calluses
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Dry, cracked skin
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Nail disorders
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Hammertoes and bunions
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Charcot Foot
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Poor blood flow.
Charcot Foot/Ankle
Charcot foot is a condition causing progressive weakening of the bones in the foot which occurs in patients that have nerve damage (neuropathy). The bones become weakened causing fractures. With continued walking, the foot eventually changes shape. As the disorder progresses, the joints collapse and the foot takes on an abnormal shape. Charcot foot can lead to severe deformity, disability and even amputation. Early diagnosis of Charcot foot is very important for successful treatment. Symptoms for Charcot can include: warmth, redness, swelling, and/or pain. Treatment options include: Immobilization, Customs shoes and bracing, activity modification, and surgery.
To learn more about foot and ankle conditions, visit the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons’ patient education website, FootHealthFacts.org