DIABETIC FOOT
If you suffer from chronic pain, numbness, or deformity related to diabetes, don’t hesitate to Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists.
What is Diabetic Foot?
What is Diabetic Foot?About 6 percent of Americans suffer from diabetes, and foot problems contribute to a large number of hospitalizations when it comes to diabetic patients.
The two aspects of Diabetes that contribute heavily to foot problems consist of nerve damage and poor circulation. Charcot arthropathy, one of the most severe issues that can arise in diabetic feet, can deform the foot and cause disability. Diabetics should inspect their feet daily to prevent long-term damage associated with diabetes.
Symptoms Of Diabetic Foot
Diabetic foot can present with various symptoms, which may vary depending on the specific complications involved. Here are some common symptoms to be aware of:
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- Numbness or Tingling: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy can cause a loss of sensation or abnormal sensations in the feet, such as numbness, tingling, or a pins-and-needles sensation.
- Burning or Shooting Pain: Some individuals with diabetic neuropathy may experience a burning or shooting pain in their feet, which can be persistent or intermittent.
- Foot Ulcers: Open sores or wounds on the feet are a common symptom of diabetic foot. They typically develop on areas of high pressure or friction, such as the sole of the foot or around the toes.
- Skin Changes: The skin on the feet may undergo certain changes due to diabetes. This can include dryness, cracking, redness, or a shiny appearance.
- Calluses and Corns: Increased pressure or friction on the feet can lead to the formation of calluses or corns, which are thickened areas of skin.
- Foot Deformities: Over time, diabetic foot complications can result in foot deformities, such as claw toes, hammertoes, or Charcot foot. These deformities can cause changes in the shape and alignment of the foot.
- Slow Wound Healing: Wounds or injuries on the feet may take longer to heal in individuals with diabetes. Delayed healing can increase the risk of infection and complications.
- Cold Feet: Poor circulation associated with peripheral arterial disease can cause the feet to feel cold to the touch.
- Changes in Nail Health: Diabetes can affect the health of the nails, leading to thickened or brittle nails, fungal infections, or ingrown toenails.
- Weakness or Instability: Nerve damage and foot deformities can result in weakness or instability when walking or standing.
Treatment For Diabetic Foot
Management of diabetic foot involves a multidisciplinary approach, including medical professionals such as endocrinologists, podiatrists, vascular specialists, and wound care specialists. The treatment plan may include:
- Strict glycemic control to manage blood sugar levels effectively.
- Regular foot examinations by healthcare professionals to monitor for any changes or issues.
- Wound care may involve cleaning and dressing the ulcers, offloading pressure from the affected areas, and using specialized wound care products.
- Antibiotic therapy, if there is an infection present.
- Vascular interventions to improve blood flow, such as angioplasty or bypass surgery, in severe cases.
- Education and guidance on proper foot care and self-management.
Prevention plays a crucial role in managing diabetic foot complications. This includes maintaining good blood sugar control, engaging in regular physical activity, quitting smoking, practicing proper foot hygiene, wearing appropriate footwear, and seeking medical attention promptly for any foot problems.
Individuals with diabetes should have regular foot assessments as part of their overall diabetes management plan. Early detection and proactive management of diabetic foot complications can significantly reduce the risk of serious complications and improve long-term outcomes.
If you would like to speak to a precision orthopedic foot and ankle specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Telemedicine appointments are also available.
DIABETIC FOOT
If you suffer from chronic pain, numbness, or deformity related to diabetes, don’t hesitate to Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists.
What is Diabetic Foot?
About 6 percent of Americans suffer from diabetes, and foot problems contribute to a large number of hospitalizations when it comes to diabetic patients.
The two aspects of Diabetes that contribute heavily to foot problems consist of nerve damage and poor circulation. Charcot arthropathy, one of the most severe issues that can arise in diabetic feet, can deform the foot and cause disability.
Diabetics should inspect their feet daily to prevent long term damage associated with diabetes.
If you would like to speak to a precision orthopedic foot and ankle specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.
