Diabetic Foot Care Specialist
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Pritesh Patel, DPM
Board Qualified Podiatrist located in Boca Raton, FL
Diabetes is the number one cause of limb amputation in the United States. If you want to know how to keep your feet healthy and avoid complications, seek the guidance of the experts at Florida Foot and Ankle Associates. Pritesh Patel, DPM, provides expert diabetic foot care including preventive strategies, ulcer treatment, and regenerative medicine. Book an appointment with Dr. Patel at his Boca Raton, Florida, location by calling or using the online scheduling system.
Diabetic Foot Care Q & A
How does diabetes affect the feet?
The elevated blood sugar levels characteristic of diabetes can lead to complications with the feet. The condition leads to poor circulation, nerve damage, and slower healing.
If you have diabetes, you may be more susceptible to the following foot conditions:
- Calluses and corns
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Foot ulcers
- Infection
- Peripheral arterial disease
- Limb loss
How can I prevent foot complications from diabetes?
If you have diabetes, it’s important to put proactive daily habits into place to prevent foot complications. Your diabetic foot care regimen should include the following:
Observation
You should inspect your feet for cuts, wounds, or changes every day. You might not be able to feel injuries to your foot if you have diabetic nerve damage.
Hygiene
Poor blood flow and susceptibility to infection make foot fungus and infection more concerning for someone who has diabetes. Always wear shoes in public places, use deodorant if your feet sweat, cut your nails straight across, and keep your feet clean.
Self-care
It’s important to be gentle with your feet and keep them warm and moisturized. Exercise is also an effective way to improve circulation and overall health.
Medical care
Make sure you see Dr. Patel for regular checkups and notify him if you notice any concerning symptoms. Your podiatrist is your best ally against foot complications.
When should I see a podiatrist for diabetic foot care?
Early medical care for foot conditions can make a significant difference in your recovery and prevent minor problems from becoming major concerns.
Signs that you should see Dr. Patel include:
- A sore that drains or doesn’t heal
- Signs of infection
- Tingling, burning, or numbness in your feet
- Inability to put weight on your feet
- Pain and swelling in your lower extremities
- Ingrown toenails or toenail fungus
From the moment you receive your diabetes diagnosis, you should have a plan in place to address foot problems with your podiatrist.
How are diabetic foot conditions treated?
Each person and diabetic foot condition requires a different treatment approach, and Dr. Patel discusses the best options with you.
Your treatment may include any of the following:
- Specialized footwear and inserts
- Compression stockings
- Medication for pain or infection
- Braces, casts, and splints
- Assistive devices
Dr. Patel can also help you get an exercise regimen and preventive plan in place to promote optimal foot health. Contact Florida Foot and Ankle Associates online or over the phone to set up a consultation.
