Do you or a friend or family member have diabetes? If so, please read further: Diabetes is a systemic disease that affects many parts of the body, but the focus of this blog will be on foot health in relation to diabetes.
So, why are the feet of concern in relation to diabetes? What does a diabetic patient or a family member need to be concerned about? The number one concern is numbness developing in the feet, this occurs due to a complication from diabetes called neuropathy. Neuropathy causes dysfunction of the nerves, usually starting with the feet. This can result in a loss of ‘feeling’ in the feet, to the level that injuries such as cuts or blisters may not be felt. If an individual does not feel the injury they may continue to walk and the problem may get worse, to the point that an infection may develop. Individuals with diabetes do not fight infections very well and the problem can escalate to the point that hospitalization or surgery is required. Unfortunately amputations are sometimes necessary to control an infection.
So, what can be done? The good news is that most amputations and significant diabetic foot complications can be prevented. The most important piece of the puzzle in preventing foot problems is to have a diabetic patient see a podiatrist at the very least annually. In my clinic, I perform a Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Examination, which is a specialized tool used to identify a patient’s specific risk level-this risk level is then communicated to the patient as well as their family doctor and/or endocrinologist. Education and knowledge of risk level, as well as getting the patients and medical team on the same team, helps to prevent diabetic foot complications. Furthermore, treatments can be tailored to any abnormalities or potential complication areas identified during the exam.
If you have diabetes or have a friend or family member with diabetes, please give us a call today at 406-721-4007.