Diabetic Foot Care In Plano, TX
Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with diabetes or you were diagnosed with it as a child, you must be managing healthy blood sugar levels to prevent complications. As your doctor will tell you, untreated or uncontrolled diabetes can wreak havoc on various systems and organs in the body. Your feet, for one, are often impacted by diabetes. Everything from nerve damage to ulcers and amputation is more likely to occur in those with diabetes. If you are living with diabetes in North Texas, our wound care & amputation prevention physician, David Bastawros DPM, can provide your feet with the proper care needed to prevent ulcers and other serious complications.
Turning to a Wound Care & Amputation Prevention Physician
You already have a primary care physician that you regularly check-in with, and you may also have an endocrinologist who is providing you with specialized diabetes care and medications, so why do you need a wound care & amputation prevention physician? The fact remains that diabetes can cause serious health risks for your feet, including nerve damage and ulcers. While the other doctors on your team can help you manage your blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes and medication, a podiatric surgeon can help address any issues that directly impact the health of your feet.
According to the American Diabetes Association, those with diabetes should visit their podiatric surgeon at least once a year for a full diabetic foot exam; however, you should turn to your podiatrist regularly,
- To inspect your feet for sores, blisters, or other issues that seem minor but could lead to a serious infection
- If you have questions or concerns about the health of your feet
Treating and Caring for Diabetic Feet
Along with taking medication to control your blood sugar and leading a healthy lifestyle, there are certain habits you should practice to specifically protect and improve the health of your feet. Some of these habits can reduce your risk for foot problems,
- Examine your feet daily to look for redness, swelling, discolorations, cuts, and other problems that will require medical attention
- Make sure to thoroughly wash your feet with soap and lukewarm water once a day and to dry feet off thoroughly after showering or bathing
- Keep nails properly trimmed, making sure to only cut nails straight across
- Apply moisturizer daily to all parts of your feet except between the toes
- Quit or avoid smoking
- Wear shoes and socks throughout the day, especially at home, to protect against injury
- Change out socks and shoes daily