Why Diabetic Podiatry Care is Important

Taking care of your feet is important, but it becomes even more so when you have a diabetes diagnosis. Depending on the stage of your disease, you may find that you have several appointments with a podiatrist throughout the year. By understanding more about the importance of diabetic podiatry care, you might find it easier to follow your podiatrist's advice.

You guard yourself against peripheral neuropathy

Over time, diabetes reduces the blood supply to your feet. How fast this happens depends on how well you manage your blood sugar levels. However, when it happens, the reduced sensation to your feet means you're less likely to notice injuries. Over time, those injuries could turn into serious deformities or infections. By engaging with your diabetes podiatrist, you'll understand the severity of your peripheral neuropathy and you may be more likely to check your feet for damage.

You can treat corns and hard skin sooner

Corns and calluses are a common occurrence, but ignoring them when you have diabetes does come with consequences. As they continue to build, they reduce the protection your usual skin provides. If they turn into a wound, you're more likely to encounter a serious infection. Additionally, when calluses build, they may alter the shape of your feet. Diabetic podiatry care includes removing corns and calluses. Unlike when you try to tackle them yourself, your podiatrist is unlikely to inflict a wound. They'll also provide you with advice on preventing future corns and calluses.

You can treat bad toenails easily

Over time, your toenails may harden or grow in the wrong direction. Although cutting normal toenails at home is safe, tackling unusual ones can result in an infection. Your podiatry diabetes treatment services should extend to caring for your toenails. Your podiatrist will also provide you with advice on preventing ingrown toenails, making it easier for you to avoid painful procedures later.

You'll identify dangerous shoes and practices

One of the biggest risks to your feet when you have diabetes is the type of shoes you wear. If your shoes are ill-fitting or they place pressure against one area of your foot, they're likely to cause a wound. At each podiatry appointment, your podiatrist will assess your shoes. In addition to making recommendations about buying new ones, they can suggest adding helpful insoles. They'll also discuss good footwear practices so that you can care for your feet between appointments.

For more information on podiatry diabetes treatment services, consult a podiatrist in your area.

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