What your podiatrist in Sparta wants you to know
If you are a diabetic, you are not alone. In fact, according to the American Diabetes Association, over 29 million Americans are affected 
by the disease. Diabetes is a systemic disease that affects many areas and systems in your body, including your immune, nervous and circulatory systems.
The disease also wreaks havoc with your feet, causing pain, ulcerative lesions and loss of sensitivity. Your feet require special care if you are diabetic. Dr. Philip Caswell at Family Foot & Ankle Care in Sparta, NJ wants to help you take special care of your feet.
One of the foot problems associated with diabetes is diabetic neuropathy, a condition which causes pain and loss of sensation in your feet. Due to a compromised nervous system, you may not feel it if you are damaging your feet.
Infections and diabetic ulcers can develop because your immune system is impaired. You may not be able to fight off infections which can result from simple cuts, scratches or blisters.
Circulatory problems from diabetes can cause ischemia and tissue death because not enough blood gets to your feet and toes. The end result of lack of blood flow may be amputation of toes or feet.
If you are diabetic, you need to take special care of your feet. Your foot doctor in Sparta wants you to follow these simple steps to ensure your feet stay healthy:
- Check your feet every day, looking at the sides and soles of your feet with a hand mirror.
- If you have cuts, bruises or blisters, bandage them for protection against further injury or infection.
- Thoroughly wash and dry your feet every day; apply lotion to keep your skin from drying out and cracking.
- Always wear soft, supportive socks and comfortable footwear; don’t go barefoot.
- Exercise and move your ankles and toes regularly to increase circulation.
- Avoid extreme temperatures because you might not feel the heat or cold and can injure your feet.
If you are diabetic, you don’t have to take care of your feet alone. Regular visits to your foot doctor are a vital part of your healthcare. For more information on diabetic foot care call Dr. Caswell at Family Foot & Ankle Care in Sparta, NJ. Call today!