Among the many health problems people with diabetes face, foot issues often rank near the top of the list. The good news is that with vigilant care and monitoring, you can avoid many of the foot-related complications associated with diabetes. To help you take the best care of your feet, podiatrist Dr. E. Charisse Dunn, of PGA Foot & Ankle P.A. in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, offers comprehensive diabetic care. Call or go online to book an appointment at PGA Foot & Ankle P.A. to get started.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects your ability to regulate your blood sugar levels. If diabetes isn’t controlled properly, it can cause two different problems that affect your feet: diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease.
Diabetic neuropathy occurs when uncontrolled diabetes damages the nerves in your feet, preventing you from feeling cold, heat, or pain sensations as well as you should. The muscles in your feet may also stop working properly as a result.
Peripheral vascular disease occurs when diabetes reduces the flow of blood to different parts of the body, including the feet. Without enough blood flow, any cuts or sores that develop on your feet are unable to heal properly, which puts you at risk of ulcers and infection.
You may have foot problems related to diabetes if:
Dr. Charisse Dunn focuses on preventing foot problems related to diabetes before they start, as well as stemming the progress of existing conditions. Since preventive care is key in managing diabetes-related foot problems, Dr. Dunn recommends the following:
Since early detection is crucial for treating foot problems related to diabetes, call or go online to book an appointment with Dr. E. Charisse Dunn to find out how you can proactively manage your foot health.