Diabetes Specialist

How does diabetes affect the feet?

Diabetes takes a toll on your entire body, especially when it comes to your feet and ankles. The big concern with your feet is that they’re the furthest points from your heart, meaning blood flow is limited. Since diabetes damages blood vessels and can further affect blood flow, the skin on your feet doesn’t get a steady supply of nutrients.

These issues can dry out the skin on your feet and lead to chronic cracking and an increased risk of wounds that heal very slowly. This can elevate your chances of developing a serious infection. But to make matters worse, diabetes can damage your nerves (diabetic neuropathy), so when a wound does occur, you may not be able to feel it.

When should I see a podiatrist if I have diabetes?

Because diabetes affects your feet in so many ways, it’s important to include regular foot and ankle exams in your health care routine. Ideally, you should schedule annual preventive exams at Broadway Foot and Ankle Clinic to keep your feet in optimal health. 

It’s particularly important to come in right away if you experience any of the following issues.

• Ingrown toenails
• Numbness or tingling
• Redness or swelling
• Visible wounds or sores
• Painful corns or calluses
• Blood or drainage in your socks

These are some of the initial warning signs of an infection or pain-causing condition, so it’s important to intervene and get started on treatment as soon as possible. 

What should I expect from a diabetic foot care exam?

When you come into Broadway Foot and Ankle Clinic for your diabetic foot care exam, our dedicated team spend time getting to know you and all about your personal medical history. Our board-certified physicians will thoroughly examine your feet and ankles and if needed, can gather in-office X-rays to diagnose the cause of any pain you’re experiencing.

Your diabetic foot care exam at Broadway Foot and Ankle Clinic may also include:

• Nail trimming
• Wound debridement
• Prescription medication management
• Fittings for diabetic shoes or orthotics 

The physicians spend time counseling you on how to care for your feet when you have diabetes. Our goal is to keep you healthy and active. They will review key aspects of good foot health including always wearing socks with shoes, inspecting your feet daily, and applying foot moisturizers regularly. At Broadway Foot and Ankle Clinic, you always receive the personalized diabetic foot exam you deserve.

You can conveniently request to schedule your diabetic foot care exam at Broadway Foot and Ankle Clinic directly through the online scheduler, or you can call the office directly.