FAQs About Diabetic Foot Care

FAQs About Diabetic Foot Care

Protect your feet from harm by following these helpful tips.

Having diabetes means that your body doesn’t properly make or use insulin, which makes it hard for your body to convert sugar and Diabetic Foot Carestarches to energy. Because of this elevated blood sugar level you are predisposed to many other health complications. From the office of your West Orange, NJ podiatrists at Foot Health Center, here are some of your most popular foot health questions answered.

Q. Why do I need to worry about the health of my feet if I have diabetes?

A. It’s important to get your blood sugar levels under control if you want to prevent other health complications. Those with diabetes are more prone to heart, lung, kidney and foot problems. Even minor foot problems can worsen and cause serious complications in those with diabetes. Why? Because many people with diabetes have reduced blood flow to the feet, which makes it easier to develop infections, ulcers and other issues that can lead to amputation if not properly cared for right away.

Q. How can I prevent amputation?

A. One of the main reasons for amputation is an infected ulcer and the best way to prevent ulcers altogether is to maintain healthy sugar levels and to monitor these levels constantly. If glucose levels are not within the normal range this can cause nerve damage and poor circulation, which both attribute to foot sores. By keeping sugar levels in check you can prevent ulcers from happening.

Also, clean feet everyday and make sure to dry them thoroughly. By cleaning and examining your feet daily you can detect ulcers and see your foot doctor in West Orange for treatment.

Q. What are some warning signs that it’s time to see my West Orange foot doctor?

A. See us right away if you experience any of these issues:

  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Ulcers
  • Skin color or temperature changes
  • Cuts or scratches
  • Pus
  • Calluses
  • Fever or chills (signs of infection)

Q. How should I care for my feet?

Prevent complications from happening to you by following these rules:

  • Always wash your feet every day with soap and water
  • Dry feet thoroughly after washing to prevent fungal infections
  • Use a moisturizer to keep skin hydrated
  • Keep toenails trimmed properly (always trim the nail straight across and never curved)
  • Always wear shoes and socks
  • Make sure you wear shoes that fit properly

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes it’s important that you get the foot care you need so long-term issues don’t affect you. Turn to your West Orange foot experts at Foot Health Center today.

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