Because diabetes can lead to diabetic ulcers and peripheral neuropathy, those living with diabetes need expert podiatric care. At Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic in Garland, Texas, skilled podiatrist Scott Nelson, DPM, uses the most advanced diagnostic and treatment solutions for diabetic foot care. Call the office and speak with a team member to book your appointment, or book online using the convenient scheduling tool.
request an appointmentHow does having diabetes affect my feet?
When blood sugar levels are too high over a long time, elevated sugar can affect your body (and your feet) in various ways. The most common diabetic foot problem is peripheral neuropathy, which occurs when your nerves become damaged from diabetes. The nerve damage results in pain, weakness, and numbness.
Having poor circulation can also contribute to diabetic foot problems, including delayed wound healing. This problem can potentially lead to skin breakdown, tissue death, and ulcers. People with diabetes are also more susceptible to corns, calluses, bunions, toenail fungus, and ingrown toenails because of nerve and circulatory issues.
How do I know if I have diabetic peripheral neuropathy?
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects your peripheral nervous system, such as the nerves in your extremities. Up to 70% of people living with diabetes develop diabetic peripheral neuropathy at some point in their lives.
If you have diabetic peripheral neuropathy, you’ll likely experience decreased sensation or numbness in your feet — particularly your toes. You may also feel pins-and-needles or burning in your feet.
How are diabetic foot problems treated?
Although there’s no current cure for diabetic peripheral neuropathy, Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic offers early intervention and treatment options that can slow the progression of the disease and relieve your pain.
Dr. Nelson performs a comprehensive foot evaluation, including any necessary advanced testing, to determine whether your symptoms are due to diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
He considers your specific needs to determine which treatment approach will work best for you. At Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic, diabetic peripheral neuropathy treatment plans can include:
- Massage and stretching
- Moderate exercise
- Anti-inflammatory or other pain medications
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
- Surgery to relieve nerve pressure caused by tumors
If you are struggling with other podiatric issues due to your diabetes, Dr. Nelson will evaluate you and work with you to address your concerns. Other common problems for those with diabetes include foot ulcers and non-healing wounds, which can be managed under expert guidance with special dressings or debridement.
How often should I have diabetic foot care?
It’s essential to examine your feet every day. Dr. Nelson demonstrates foot exam methods you can use to monitor your feet at home. Additionally, you need professional diabetic foot exams a minimum of once a year.
Call Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic or use online scheduling to get the best in diabetes foot care now.