What You Need To Know About Diabetic Foot Care

The Ultimate Guide to Diabetic Foot Care

If you are diabetic, you are not alone. Over 29 million people in the United States have diabetes. It’s a serious disease that can cause problems with your feet. It’s helpful to know what to do to take care of your feet. Podiatrists Dr. Thomas Barbaro and Dr. Samantha Trepal in New Hyde Park, NY, provide a full range of podiatry services, including diabetic foot care.

What You Need To Know About Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes causes problems with major body systems, including your:

• Immune system, which can lead to delayed healing and infection
• Nervous system, which can lead to loss of sensation or painful neuropathy
• Circulatory system, which can lead to impaired blood flow to your feet, causing soft tissue death and amputations

To help avoid these diabetes-related foot issues, taking care of your feet is important. You need to follow these steps every day:

• Stretch your feet, ankles, and toes
• Wash and dry your feet and apply moisturizing lotion
• Examine your feet, checking for sores, blisters, and other injuries
• Clean and bandage any cuts, blisters, or sores
• Avoid going barefoot; wear socks and shoes, especially if you are active

Regular visits with a podiatrist are also essential for diabetic foot care. Your podiatrist will comprehensively examine your feet, checking for injuries, bruising, or swelling. They will also evaluate your circulation and nerve sensation.

Your podiatrist may recommend laboratory testing to assess your blood sugar levels and determine if your diabetes is under control. Imaging studies may also be recommended to determine if bone, tendon, ligament, or muscle problems are present. Your podiatrist can refer you to a diabetes specialist or orthopedic specialist if necessary.

Want To Know More About Diabetic Foot Care?

To learn more about diabetic foot care and how your podiatrist can help, call Dr. Thomas Barbaro and Dr. Samantha Trepal in New Hyde Park, NY. You can reach them in the office by calling (516) 326-7979. Call today.