If you live with diabetes, your feet require special attention. Since November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, Board-certified podiatrist Albert A. Nejat, DPM, FACFAS of the Podiatry Institute of Southern California, uses this blog to explain the importance of having a podiatrist on our diabetes care team.
With offices in Culver City, California, Dr. Nejat has extensive experience in providing superb podiatric care to patients with diabetes.
Here’s what he wants you to know.
Diabetes can cause two main problems that affect your feet: nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor blood circulation.
High blood sugar can damage the nerves in your feet, leading to a loss of sensation. As a result, you might not feel a small cut, blister, or sore, which, left untreated, can lead to a severe infection.
Maintaining well-controlled blood sugar levels is a crucial step in protecting your feet from potentially severe complications. Over 80,000 diabetic foot ulcers are treated in US hospitals annually, often leading to prolonged care and major surgery, and 70% of lower limb amputations are the result of diabetes complications.
Diabetes can also narrow your arteries, reducing blood flow to your feet. Without an oxygen-laden and nutrient-rich blood supply, as seen in neuropathy, small cuts and bruises can quickly escalate into big problems. This also makes it harder for wounds to heal, and the extended time increases the risk of infection.
A board-certified podiatrist like Dr. Nejat plays a vital role in your diabetes management by:
Dr. Nejat recommends at least one thorough foot exam a year to check for any potential problems you might not have noticed.
From trimming calluses to treating ingrown toenails, we can address minor issues before they become major complications.
Dr. Nejat will discuss the best way to care for your feet at home to reduce the risk of complications. This includes teaching you how to properly inspect your feet, select the proper footwear, and care for your feet at home to prevent problems.
Don't wait for a problem to arise; be proactive. If you have diabetes, make a board-certified podiatrist part of your healthcare team. For diabetes care and all your foot care needs, contact the Podiatry Institute of Southern California or request an appointment through our online portal today.
