Consult Dr. Joseph DiFranco of DiFranco Family Foot Care, to receive expert diabetic foot care in Erie, PA.

What Are Common Diabetic Foot Problems and the Symptoms They Cause?

Diabetes is a chronic disease that can cause potentially life-threatening complications such as cardiovascular diseases, kidney problems, and strokes. However, even the comparatively minor complications of diabetes can still have significant effects on your quality of life. Anyone dealing with diabetic foot problems can vouch for that.

There are two main reasons why diabetes can spell trouble for your feet.

First off, diabetes can make caring for your feet more difficult because it can lead to a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is a condition characterized by nerve damage that can take away your ability to sense certain stimuli. More specifically, the nerve damage associated with diabetic neuropathy often causes the feet and legs to grow numb.

Early on, the numbness caused by diabetic neuropathy is slight. As the condition develops, you may lose the ability to sense pain and temperature changes in your lower extremities.

Because of diabetes, the blood flow to your feet may also be significantly reduced. Without proper blood flow to your feet, any wounds you develop on those parts of your body may take longer to recover. At first, you may only fail to notice some small wounds. If you don’t address the problem, even the foot sores and infections you develop may not register. Work closely with Dr. DiFranco of DiFranco Family Foot Care, and avoid the complications presented by diabetic foot problems in Erie, PA.

How Can You Prevent the Complications Associated With Diabetic Foot Problems?

Now that you understand how diabetes can jeopardize your foot health, it’s time for you to take preventative measures.

You can start by checking your feet daily. Look for wounds and growths affecting your feet and take appropriate actions if you spot any. Next, you need to wash your feet with warm water and soap. Once you’re done washing, grab a towel and dry your feet thoroughly. Don’t forget to wipe between your toes.

Wearing socks or stockings is also a must if you have diabetes. If your shoes don’t feel completely comfortable, you should get a new pair that gives your feet more wiggle room. Lastly, you should schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist to ensure you are not missing any warning signs.

Book your diabetic foot treatment sessions in Erie, PA, by calling (814) 217-0618 and speaking to Dr. DiFranco of DiFranco Family Foot Care.