Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
By Sahiba Singh DPM, AACFAS
November marks National Diabetes Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes and its wide-reaching impact. One crucial, often-overlooked aspect of diabetes management is foot care. As podiatrists, we play a vital role in helping individuals with diabetes prevent serious complications related to their feet and overall well-being.
The Connection Between Diabetes and Foot Health
For those living with diabetes, elevated blood sugar levels can lead to a number of foot-related problems, primarily by damaging the nerves and blood vessels. This damage often manifests in several ways:
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Reduced sensation in the feet can cause individuals to be unaware of injuries like cuts, blisters, or sores, increasing the risk of infections.
• Poor Circulation: Impaired blood flow makes it harder for wounds to heal, leaving patients more vulnerable to ulcers and other complications.
• Foot Deformities: Conditions such as bunions and hammertoes may develop, leading to discomfort, altered gait, and an increased risk of injury.
As podiatrists, it’s essential to educate diabetic patients on the connection between diabetes and their foot health, emphasizing how closely these areas are intertwined.
The Role of Podiatry in Diabetes Management
Podiatric care is fundamental for diabetes management. Regular foot care, examinations, and prompt treatment of any arising issues can make a profound difference in a patient’s quality of life. Here are the key ways podiatrists help manage diabetes-related foot complications:
1. Routine Foot Examinations: As a podiatrist, I conduct thorough foot exams to catch early signs of trouble, such as neuropathy, wounds, or reduced circulation, allowing for timely intervention before these issues worsen.
2. Foot Care Education: Educating patients about the importance of daily foot care routines is one of the most critical aspects of my role. Proper hygiene, nail trimming techniques, and selecting appropriate footwear can help patients avoid injuries and infections.
3. Management of Foot Conditions: Many individuals with diabetes develop corns, calluses, or fungal infections. These issues can be more serious for diabetic patients and require careful treatment. I also provide custom orthotics to improve foot mechanics and alleviate pressure points.
4. Wound Care: Ulcers and sores are common in diabetic feet. My specialized wound care treatments focus on promoting healing and preventing infections or, in severe cases, the need for amputation.
5. Surgical Intervention: In advanced cases of foot deformities or infections, surgical procedures may be necessary. As a podiatrist, I can perform surgeries to correct issues such as hammertoes, bunions, or even address serious infections that threaten the foot’s integrity.
Proactive Tips for Diabetic Foot Health
Beyond regular podiatric care, there are several steps I encourage my diabetic patients to take to protect their feet and maintain optimal foot health:
• Daily Foot Inspections: Patients should check their feet for any cuts, blisters, changes in color, or temperature every day.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Washing the feet with mild soap and water and drying them thoroughly, especially between the toes, is crucial to preventing infections.
• Proper Footwear: I always emphasize the importance of well-fitting shoes with proper support to help prevent injuries like blisters and sores.
• Blood Sugar Management: Keeping blood sugar levels within the target range not only supports overall health but also reduces the risk of foot complications.
• Stay Active: Regular physical activity improves circulation, which is essential for keeping the feet healthy.
The Importance of Podiatry in Diabetes Awareness Month
As we recognize American Diabetes Month, I want to highlight the essential role podiatry plays in diabetes care. Foot health is a critical component of diabetes management, and taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of complications. By partnering with a podiatrist and incorporating proactive foot care into their routine, individuals with diabetes can safeguard their foot health, leading to a better quality of life.
In the end, healthy feet are a key part of overall well-being. Let’s work together to ensure that proper foot care is a priority for every person managing diabetes!
Sahiba Singh DPM, AACFAS
Sahiba Singh DPM, AACFAS, is a Podiatrist at Family Foot & Leg Centers in Fort Myers. She is a Fellow of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons. Call 239-430-3668 or visit www.NaplesPodiatrist.com to make an appointment. Visit FootHealthFacts.org to learn more about foot and ankle conditions.
6846 International Center Blvd
Suite B
Fort Myers, FL 33912
(239) 430 – 3668 (FOOT)
www.NaplesPodiatrist.com
