Diabetic Foot Care Specialist
Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry
Podiatrists & Podiatric Surgeons located in Flatbush, Brooklyn, NY
Having diabetes significantly increases your risk of foot-related health problems. Left untreated, some of these complications can be life-threatening. Many of the issues which can lead to infection and amputation can be identified and mediated in a routine exam. At Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry in Fort Greene, Flatbush, East Flatbush, Brownsville, and Bedford Stuyvesant, in Brooklyn, New York, Bryan Makower, DPM, and Loretta Cacace, DPM, care about keeping your feet healthy. If you have diabetes and worry about your feet, make an appointment today by calling or clicking the online booking tool.
Diabetic Foot Care
How does diabetes affect the health of my feet?
Diabetes is a chronic illness marked by high blood sugar levels. If your blood sugar levels are too high for an extended period of time, it can lead to two serious complications:
Diabetic neuropathy
Uncontrolled diabetes permanently damages your nerves, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. Damaged nerves are unable to feel pain or sensations like hot and cold. As a result, you’re more susceptible to injury. If you don’t feel a cut or wound on your foot because of neuropathy, an infection might develop.
Peripheral vascular disease
Diabetes also affects your circulation. Without good blood flow to your feet, it takes longer for wounds and sores to heal. If you develop an infection that doesn’t heal, you’re also at a higher risk of developing ulcers or gangrene.
Does diabetes increase my risk of other foot problems?
Anyone can experience foot problems, but if you have diabetes, you’re more likely to develop an infection or more serious complication that might require amputation. The team at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry regularly works with diabetic patients to lower their risk of:
- Athlete’s foot
- Fungal nails
- Calluses
- Blisters
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
The team also provides treatment for ingrown toenails, diabetic ulcers, and dry skin.
When should I see a podiatrist about diabetes?
If you have diabetes, it’s important to pay attention to the health of your feet. In most cases, living a healthy lifestyle and maintaining normal blood sugar levels are enough to prevent complications.
However, there are certain symptoms that indicate a more serious problem. Make an appointment at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry if your feet become:
- Swollen
- Hot
- Painful
You should also seek professional medical help if you develop a diabetic ulcer or pain that spreads into your legs.
Is there any way to prevent diabetic foot problems?
There’s no way to prevent diabetic foot problems entirely. However, there are steps you can take to significantly lower your risk.
For example, the team at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry recommends washing and inspecting your feet and toes every day. You should also wear clean, dry socks and comfortable shoes with adequate space. In addition, avoid walking barefoot, even at home, and monitor your blood sugar levels regularly. Healthy lifestyle changes like these can make all the difference.
Diabetes is a serious disease, but it’s possible to manage. Give your feet a fighting chance and make an appointment at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry today by calling or clicking the online booking tool.
Services
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Bunionsmore info
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Hammer Toesmore info
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Cornsmore info
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Pediatric Foot Caremore info
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Diabetic Foot Caremore info
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Fungal Nailsmore info
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Reconstructive Surgerymore info
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Foot Painmore info
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Ankle Injuriesmore info
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Plantar Fasciitismore info
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Wound Ulcersmore info
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Sports Medicine and Work Injuriesmore info
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Flat Foot Surgerymore info
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Ingrown Toenailsmore info
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Custom Orthoticsmore info
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Heel Painmore info