Diabetic patients should have a thorough foot exam at least once a year. Diabetic patients with neuropathy (loss of sensation), a deformity (hammertoe, bunion, bump on foot, etc), or decreased blood flow should be seen more frequently.
A thorough foot exam with your Podiatrist will consist of an evaluation of blood flow, nerves and sensation, changes in skin, muscles and bones, and overall function. Depending on your doctor’s findings, other tests may be warranted. The goal of your exam is to treat current issues and determine treatment to prevent future issues.
Diabetic Foot Pain
Foot pain is not normal and might be an indicator of an underlying problem. Finding the source of the pain and having a treatment plan can help prevent the problem from worsening and ease or eliminate the pain.
Diabetic Foot Care
Taking good care of your feet and monitoring them closely are very important. It is recommended to do a self-foot exam every day to monitor for any changes.
These measures should be taken in order to prevent potential complications: have calluses and corns removed, treat dry skin, have trimmed toenails, wear proper shoes, decrease pressure points with orthotics or bracing, treat bony deformities.
Diabetic Foot Ulcer
Diabetic foot ulcers (or diabetic foot wounds) can be an issue in up to 34% of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics. There are a large number of hospital inpatients that are admitted due to diabetic foot ulcer complications. These complications can cause problems in other organs and parts of the body.1
The best way to prevent complications is to seek treatment for diabetic wounds as early as possible. Bad complications that result in hospital stays are often initially caused by minor injuries and breaks in the skin.1 Make sure to see your Podiatrist if you notice a foot wound. Neuropathy, blood flow issues, and a history of previous ulcers can increase chances of complications.
References
Armstrong DG, Boulton AJM, Bus SA. Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Their Recurrence. N Engl J Med 2017; 376:2367.
