People with diabetes have an inability to produce insulin or are not able to use the hormone effectively. This causes their blood sugar levels to rise, and when the body remains in this state for a prolonged period, it can develop organ and tissue damage. As a result, foot problems are among the most common complications known to arise in diabetic individuals. 

Below is a quick guide to how diabetes exacerbates foot problems and why you should see a podiatrist if you have the condition:

How Diabetes Affects Your Feet

Diabetics are susceptible to developing neuropathy, or nerve damage, and peripheral arterial disease, or poor circulation. As a result, any cuts or scratches on the bottom of the feet can quickly evolve into ulcers that do not heal.

Treatment for Ulcers

When ulcers are not properly treated, the risk of amputation is greatly increased. However, in most of these instances, if structured and quality care is applied, this worst-case scenario is easily prevented. A podiatrist will provide wound debridement—which is the removal of dead, diminished, or contaminated tissue. They will also dress the area and offer pressure relief treatments.  

Importance of Prevention

While diabetic foot care is incredibly important after the development of an ulcer, seeing a podiatrist as soon as you are diagnosed will help prevent ulceration altogether. Specialized shoe insoles and monitoring the temperature of the skin around your feet are two approaches that have been shown to reduce ulceration and re-ulceration rates. Your podiatrist might also want to apply new, developing techniques to your specific foot problems.

If you are diabetic and need to see a podiatrist about current or potential foot problems, contact Choice Podiatry Associates in Cincinnati, OH. Their team provides medical and surgical treatment for a variety of issues, including ulcers. Schedule an appointment at one of their three locations today by calling (513) 574-2424 for Bridgetown; (513) 984-1911 for Kenwood; and (513) 563-2225 for Reading. You can also visit their website to learn more about the services they offer.