Patients with diabetes have an increased risk of developing many different types of foot problems, such as foot ulcers or diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic foot care greatly reduces the risk of developing such problems. Dr. Peter Siroka, the board certified podiatrist at our office in Stamford, CT, provides diabetic foot care to help you maintain healthy feet and prevent problems from developing. 

Diabetic Foot Problems

Individuals with diabetes tend to have poor blood circulation, which can contribute to foot problems. Poor circulation causes wounds on the feet to heal slowly, which increases the risk for developing an infection. If an infection sets in, it can lead to the development of more serious conditions. 

Another reason patients with diabetes are prone to developing foot problems has to do with high blood sugar, which can cause damage to blood vessels and nerves. When the nerves or blood vessels in the legs or feet are damaged, numbness, loss of feeling, or tingling can occur.

Diabetic individuals are at risk of developing several different types of foot conditions, some of which can be quite serious and potentially lead to the need for amputation. Examples of various diabetic foot problems include: 

• Diabetic foot ulcers 
• Diabetic neuropathy 
• Calluses or corns
• Toenail fungus 
• Charcot’s foot
• Foot swelling 
• Athlete’s foot 
• Gangrene

Diabetic Foot Care

A consistent foot care routine helps keep feet healthy and is extremely important for individuals dealing with diabetes. The experienced podiatrist at our office in Stamford, CT, will develop a diabetic foot care routine that you can easily perform on your own day. An effective diabetic foot care routine consists of several key steps, such as treating even minor injuries or wounds right away to prevent an infection from developing. Other aspects of a diabetic foot care routine include:

• Checking the feet daily for cuts, scratches, scrapes, puncture wounds, redness, or blisters
• Applying first aid measures to wounds promptly to prevent infection 
• Stretching or moving around throughout the day to improve circulation
• Wearing socks and shoes to protect the feet from injury
• Wearing comfortable shoes that fit properly
• Keeping feet warm in cold weather
• Wearing loose fitting socks to bed
• Changing socks and shoes daily
• Keeping the feet clean and dry
• Moisturizing the feet daily
• Trimming toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails

Caring for your feet when you have diabetes helps keep them healthy and prevents serious health problems from developing. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Siroka to learn more about diabetic foot care by calling our podiatry office in Stamford, CT, at (203) 614-8185.