Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
Diabetic neuropathy is a progressive disease that affects nearly 200,000 new patients per year. Roughly, 29 million Americans have diabetes. Many of these cases are undiagnosed, but for those individuals that struggle with the disease, symptoms of diabetic neuropathy can be debilitating.
Understanding the disease state is complex, but in short, having high blood sugar levels, along with low blood and oxygen supply, damages the nerves throughout the body. This damage affects the long peripheral nerves that feed sensations to the legs, feet, and toes from the spinal cord, through communication with the brain. If your condition has progressed, along with nerve damage, you may develop lingering sores on your feet and toes that are resistant to healing.
Once the peripheral nerves are damaged, there is no cure. Along with medications and drug therapies, there are proven methods to lessen the symptoms of diabetic foot neuropathy.
Foot Ulcers
Because of the nerve damage, the feet will most likely not secrete oils or sweat properly and can develop cracks and deep slits from dry skin. Calluses can also split, and once these issues start to take place, bleeding, infections and non-healing wounds form on the bottom of the foot and toes. The lack of blood supply and the nerve issues, do not allow the wound to heal properly on its own. Along with this disorder, the individual will continue to put pressure on the foot; this rubbing action is similar to wearing a hole in your sock or shoe.
It’s critical to keep your glucose levels regulated.
Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment
• Antibiotics
• Grafts
• Saline debridement
• Surgery
• Therapeutic footwear
• Wound care
People with diabetes are encouraged to do self-checks on their feet daily. As soon as you notice any redness or wounds, it is imperative to see your podiatrist.
Dr. Gavin, Southwest Florida’s Prominent Podiatrist
Dr. Gavin earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Niagara University in Niagara Falls, NY. He is a graduate of
Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine located in Independence, OH and completed his surgical residency at Humana Specialty Hospital in Memphis TN. Dr. Gavin is board certified in foot surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
He has a solo practice in Fort Myers, FL where he has practiced since 1986 including Shell Point Village retirement community for 21 years. Dr. Gavin has lectured at Niagara University, NY, Midwest Podiatry Conference and the APMA national podiatry meeting.
Dr. Gavin specializes in diabetic foot management, trauma, and limb preservation surgery.
After returning from Knoxville, TN, where he worked closely with vascular surgeons specializing in limb revascularization and reconstruction in foot surgery, Dr. Gavin continues to perform advanced podiatric
care in Southwest Florida area.
239-887-4621
www.DrDavidGavin.com
15620 McGregor Blvd
Suite 125 Fort Myers
FL 33908.
