On the Front Lines of Diabetic Foot Care
/Diabetic Foot Care is highly important to preserving feet for those afflicted with diabetes. This disease can cause many problems due to increased blood sugar levels that damage nerves and slow down healing. Those that have long-term diabetes have a higher chance of developing severe foot complications because of nerve issues and infections. One particular way of fighting diabetes is by using shoes specially made for this purpose since they are made with special materials and in appropriate sizes. These shoes have taller and broader toe boxes that give the toes extra space to move, minimizing the chances of injuries. They also provide support for the feet and have deeper grooves that allow for orthotics to be placed in securely.
Diabetes causes foot muscles to act abnormally since nerves become easily damaged. Moreover, foot ulcers can develop much easier since nerve damage makes it difficult to feel when the feet have become injured. Ulcers happen as openings in the skin of the foot that reveal the muscles underneath. Blood is reduced and numbness increases. Amputations can happen since blood flow has become disturbed, causing wounds to take longer to heal and cause havoc thereafter.
Other treatment for this condition includes:
Diabetics must examine their feet daily by checking all parts of the feet, especially on the bottom where it is hard to see.
Feet should be washed daily. Be sure to avoid hot water temperatures and check the water with your hands before washing feet. The feet may not be able to discern the temperature of the water if nerve damage has caused diminished sensations.
Here at The Texas Foot Specialists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum provide expert and specialized care to address all of your foot and ankle needs. From conservative to advanced surgical treatments, you can always count on us for quality and compassionate care. Contact us online to make an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Sugar Land, Pasadena or Houston.