Diabetes can have an effect on your health in a variety of ways. While it's well-known that watching your diet helps to manage the effects of diabetes, not everyone is aware that foot health is also an important component of diabetic care. Fortunately, by following these simple steps to prevent injury and infection, keeping your feet healthy isn't difficult.

Dr. Peter Siroka, your foot doctor in Summer St. Stamford, CT, is committed to working alongside his diabetic patients to educate them about the best ways to care for their feet.

Why foot health matters to diabetics

Diabetes doesn't just affect the way the body processes sugar; it can also damage the blood vessels and the way nerves receive pain signals, particularly those in the feet since they are the extremity that is furthest away from the heart. So, when a foot or ankle injury occurs, even a minor blister or scrape, it can be difficult to heal and may lead to an unnoticed open wound that is subject to infection. The lack of blood circulation to the feet compounds this problem because the healing process is diminished. Severe cases of diabetes-related foot ulcers can result in systemic infection, gangrene, or amputation.

How diabetic people can care for their feet

Foot doctors like Dr. Peter Siroka in Summer St. Stamford are an invaluable resource for people with diabetes. They can quickly diagnose and prescribe treatment for potential problems, as well as educate their patients about the steps needed to avoid foot wounds. These include:

• Wash your feet every day. Use a mild soap, soft sponge, and lukewarm water to keep your feet clean. Dry them completely afterward.
• Inspect your feet daily. Use a handheld mirror to visualize any areas that are difficult to reach. Any cuts, blisters, scrapes, or nail issues, no matter how small, should be reported to your podiatrist.
• Wear clean, dry socks. Change your socks daily and consider wearing socks and footwear designed for diabetic people.
• Never go barefoot. Even indoors, make sure to wear close-toed shoes or slippers.
   

If you've been diagnosed with diabetes, consult your foot doctor in Summer St. Stamford, CT, should be near the top of your to-do list. Call our podiatry office at (203) 614-8185 to make an appointment with Dr. Peter Siroka.