What Is Diabetic Foot Care?

Over 29 million people in the U.S. are living with diabetes, with an additional 86 million who have prediabetes, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. With numbers like those, it is safe to say this is a major medical issue for our nation.

Diabetes affects the body in many different ways—high blood pressure, increased risk of heart attack and stroke, and retinopathy (which can result in blindness)—but it is essential for diabetic individuals to know the effects on foot health. The disease can lead to serious issues for the lower limbs, so diabetic foot care has to be a priority.

Essentially, responsible care for diabetic feet is a matter of taking preventative measures to protect them, treat issues at their earliest stages, and maintain a relationship with a medical professional who can monitor the condition and is committed to your health and safety (like the ones here at The Kansas Foot Center).

This is all achieved by taking measures such as:

• Performing daily foot inspection. This practice is invaluable for helping you to discover issues at their earliest, most treatable stages. We can provide instruction and recommendations so you are able to completely check your feet for all problems.
• Wearing diabetic footwear. You need to protect your feet by wearing both socks and shoes that will keep them safe and not cause additional issues. If you have any doubts about your own ability to pick out the right footwear, let our staff help you!
• Managing your condition. Part of responsible diabetic foot care is monitoring your blood glucose levels and keeping them in the proper range. This is essential for your nerve health, which enables you to recognize injuries and damage in your lower limbs.

There are many important components of a foot care plan, but perhaps the most important of all is to have a trusting relationship with a podiatrist who is committed to your health and safety. You can find that here at The Kansas Foot Center. We will treat any issues that arise, but also provide the guidance you need to keep new ones from developing in the first place. Call us at (316) 283-4330 for more information, or schedule your appointment with any of our three Kansas offices (Newton, Wichita, or Emporia) online!