Diabetic Foot Care in Tustin, CA

If you have diabetes, then it can reduce the supply of blood to your feet, causing a loss of feeling which is known as peripheral neuropathy. The result of this condition is that you may not notice if your foot is sore or injured and that injuries to your feet do not heal particularly well. Here are some tips on how to care for your feet if you have diabetes:

• You should see a podiatrist at least once a year and have any corns or hard skin treated by a podiatrist, so that you do not develop complications;
• You should be keeping your feet clean and regularly check to make sure that they are free of any sort of infection;
• Make certain that you are wearing shoes that fit well and do not rub or squeeze your feet, as these can cause calluses, ulcers, and nail problems;
• Do not go barefoot outside, to avoid cuts and try to not sit with your legs crossed so as not to impede your blood circulation;
• Take care of your toenails and clip or file them on a regular basis;
• If you smoke, it is important that you try and stop smoking as it impairs the blood circulation and can worsen foot and leg problems.

It is important that you take care of your feet and make certain that they are clean and free of any calluses or injuries that could potentially become infected. If you suspect that you might have a foot injury or an infection, you should see your doctor or podiatrist as soon as possible.

Podiatrists are experts in the care of feet and lower limbs and are highly trained to deal with the diagnosis, prevention, and management of any problems related to the feet. If you have diabetes, then it is recommended that you see a podiatrist at least once a year to prevent peripheral neuropathy, which is the reduced blood supply to the feet. This is a serious condition that can have a very negative impact on your health and can even result in amputation of the foot.

You do not need a referral to see a podiatrist but receiving one from your primary care physician allows for a continuation of care and makes certain that the podiatrist you see is in your insurance network. If you have diabetes, you should see a podiatrist once a year and, if you have any corns or calluses on your feet, have your podiatrist treat them so that they do not cause a future complication.

Diabetes can cause nerve damage to the feet and impede the blood supply, which can make it difficult for those with diabetes to know if they have problems in their feet – as their ability to feel when their feet are sore, irritated, or infected can be compromised. If a problem develops, it is important that a diabetic seek medical care, as these problems can escalate to gangrene, which can result in an amputation of the foot.

If you experience any of the following, it is recommended that you see your doctor: a loss of feeling; numbness or a tingling sensation; blisters or other wounds that do not cause pain; skin discoloration; temperature changes; red streaks; wound with or without drainage; painful tinging; or staining on socks. If an infection develops, then watch for fever, chills, uncontrollable blood sugar levels, shaking, shock, and redness; it is important that you seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms so that treatment can begin immediately.

If you are a diabetic in need of treatment for your feet or are looking for a podiatrist to help manage diabetic foot concerns, then book an appointment at Tustin Podiatry Clinic. Our location is conveniently at 17400 Irvine Blvd, Suite H, Tustin, CA 92780. Call us to book your appointment now.