Diabetic Foot Exam
Diabetes can lead to serious foot complications. Regular foot exams are essential to detect issues early and prevent problems like ulcers and infections.
Risk Factors:
Several factors may increase the risk of development including: poor blood sugar control, nerve damage, poor circulation, foot deformities, previous foot ulcers or amputation, smoking, obesity.
Symptoms:
Common symptoms include: numbness or tingling, pain or burning sensation, changes in skin color or temperature, swelling, sores or ulcers, ingrown toenails, corns or calluses.
Diagnosis:
Typically diagnosed based on inspection, sensation tests, pulse checks, and foot structure evaluation.
Prevention:
To prevent or reduce the risk, you can: control blood sugar, daily foot inspection, clean and moisturize feet, wear proper footwear, avoid walking barefoot, regular foot exams.
Treatment Options:
Treatment may include: wound care, infection management, orthotic devices, blood sugar control, medications, surgery. If you have diabetes, we recommend establishing care with a podiatrist. Book an appointment at Sole Foot & Ankle today.
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Diabetes can damage nerves and reduce blood flow (circulation) to your feet, which can lead to serious foot problems. Early detection prevents complications like ulcers and infections resulting from diabetes. With routine foot exams, you can prevent many of these problems.
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Yearly, or more if you have foot issues.
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Seek medical help promptly.
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Early detection and management can prevent complications.