Oscar-award winning actor Tom Hanks confirmed that he is suffering from Type 2 Diabetes. With this type of diabetes, the body fails to use insulin properly which results to raised levels of glucose or sugar in the body. And one of the complications of having Type 2 Diabetes is the high risk of developing diabetic foot.
How does a diabetic foot occur?
A diabetic foot occurs due to poor circulation in the foot or neuropathy. This is because of poor blood circulation caused by increased blood sugar levels. Diabetic neuropathy can cause the loss of sensation in the feet. A person may lose the ability to feel any pain, heat, or cold. Minor cuts, burns, pressure sores and other foot problems. This may lead to neglect, causing more foot problems. If left untreated, complications may occur such as infection, death of the tissues, and ulceration.
Consult a podiatrist for more information on proper foot care. The doctors at Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot disorders.
Three Foot problems common with having diabetes
- Loss of feeling in the feet
- Changes in the shape of the feet
- Foot sores and ulcers that are not healing
- Diabetic foot care
Orthotics with Plastazote foam. Plastazote foam is the number one material used for protecting the diabetic foot. It helps accommodate pressure hot spots by adapting to heat and pressure.
Wear proper foot wear with:
- High and wide toe box
- Insoles that are removable
- Options to insert orthotics when needed
- Firm heel counters which will provide stability and support
How can I prevent a diabetic foot?
Prevention is always better than cure, hence, it is important to focus on preventing a diabetic foot rather than focusing on how to treat it once it occurs. Here are ways to ensure that you prevent the occurrence of a diabetic foot:
- Control your diabetes. Ensure that you are having a healthy lifestyle and have regular check-ups with your physician.
- Regularly check your feet. Check your feet for cuts, sores, burns, and other problems. It is important that you check your feet because you might be unaware of certain problems due to the loss of sensation.
- Keep skin smooth and soft. Apply lotion or cream at the top and bottom of the feet, but do not put lotion in between toes as this may cause infection.
- Wear shoes and socks all the time and refrain from walking barefoot.
- Protect your feet from cold and heat.
- Keep good blood circulation on your feet.
At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success, we specialize in we specialize in helping diabetics with foot disorders. To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.