FAQs about Diabetic Footcare

Get all of your questions about diabetes-related foot problems answered.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important that you add a podiatrist to your team of doctors that can provide you with care. After all, diabetes can cause serious issues for your feet, especially if you don’t have your diabetes under control. Here at Avon Podiatry Associates in Avon, CT, your podiatrist, Dr. Richard Grayson, works with many patients living with diabetes in order to keep their feet healthy and functional.

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions that we hear about diabetic foot care:

What are some of the symptoms I should look for?

You should be examining your feet every day to look for any problems or changes in your feet that may warrant a doctor’s visit. Some problems to look for include:

• Tingling or numbness in your feet
• Open wounds
• Ulcers
• Corns and calluses
• Pus or drainage
• Ingrown toenails
• Cuts and scrapes
• Redness
• Swelling
• Changes in the shape or color of your feet

What does a diabetic ulcer look like?

Simply put, an ulcer will look like an inflamed crater in the skin, sometimes with a callused patch of skin surrounding it. You’ll find these red open sores often don’t go away or are very slow to heal. Unfortunately, untreated diabetic foot ulcers can lead to serious infection. To prevent complications including amputation it’s important that you seek immediate medical attention if you develop an ulcer.

What problems can diabetes cause?

There are many issues that those with diabetes should be aware of. People with diabetes are more likely to deal with foot complications including:

• Loss of sensation in the feet (caused by nerve damage)
• Neuropathy (also caused by nerve damage)
• Foot ulcers
• Sores and wounds that don’t heal
• Amputation

Is there footwear designed just for diabetics?

Absolutely. Your podiatrist can even create custom orthotics right here in our Avon, CT, practice. Since diabetics should never go barefoot, it’s even more important that you are wearing appropriate footwear that provides your feet with protection, support, and comfort to prevent problems. Diabetic footwear should also have the APMA’s Seal of Acceptance.

How can I prevent diabetes-related foot problems?

The best thing you can do for your overall health is to keep your blood sugar in check. This means turning to a doctor who can provide you with the proper medication. You should also monitor your blood sugar every day, to make sure your medication is working. Healthy lifestyle changes such as losing excess weight, eating healthier foods, quitting smoking, and regularly exercising can all greatly improve your health.

Need care? Give us a call

If you are looking for a podiatrist in the Avon, CT, area who can provide you with individualized, diabetes-specific care, then call Avon Podiatry Associates today at (860) 677-7733 to schedule your next appointment.