Caring for Your Diabetic Foot Pain Did you know that about 34 million people in the United States are living with diabetes? That’s about one in every ten Americans. Diabetic patients have a unique set of health concerns and potential complications. Along with an increased risk to develop problems with their eyes, kidneys, nerves and circulation, complications can also impact their feet. Podiatry physician, David Fine, DPM, has expert information and advice on how to best care for your feet if you have diabetes. How Does Diabetes Affect Your Feet? Consistently high blood sugar levels can cause gradual damage to your
22
NOVEMBER 2021
blood vessels. This restricts blood flow to other parts of your body, including your feet. You can develop diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage, anywhere in the body. Neuropathy in diabetic patients most commonly affects their feet. “Patients might have pain, tingling and burning sensations. They might even lose all sensation in their feet,” says Dr. Fine. When this happens, pain wouldn’t alert you to cuts or sores on your feet, increasing the risk of infection. In the worst-case scenario, infections that don’t heal along with poor circulation can lead to gangrene, and your doctor might have to amputate a toe, foot or leg
to stop its spread. Dr. Fine says, “One of the most challenging conditions we treat are patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. This can be very disconcerting to the patient and is often a red flag. Loss of protective sensation can lead to balance problems, foot infections, ulcers and musculoskeletal and neurovascular conditions like charcot disease in the later stages.” Signs of Diabetic Foot
Problems Make sure to bring any of these symptoms to your doctor’s attention right away: • Blisters • Calluses or corns • Changes in skin color on feet • Cracks between your toes • Developing bunions • Ingrown toenail • Loss of sensation in your feet or legs • Peeling or cracking on the soles of your feet • Sores that don’t heal
For Advertising Info 727-943-0551 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
