Diabetic diagnosis.....now what?

Diabetes is a disease in which a person has a consistently high blood sugar, either from the body not making enough insulin to counteract it (Type 1 Diabetes), or because the cells don’t react to the insulin that is produced (Type II Diabetes). As of 2007 there are 23.6 million children and adults with diabetes. That’s almost 8% of our population. It’s also the 7th leading cause of death. So its numbers are rapidly growing and the disease itself can lead to a number of complications in the body.

Long term effects of diabetes can include poor blood flow to the legs. This poor blood flow affects the muscles, bones, and nerves. Diabetics can also be more prone to infections and tend to heal slower than someone without diabetes. This presents a problem with even the smallest sore because due to the poor blood flow that would normally bring healing agents, the wound becomes at greater risk of infection. This is where your podiatrist can save the day. Any sore or callus should be examined by your podiatrist to evaluate the seriousness and apply any aid needed to heal. Fixing these wounds by yourself could lead to an infection. It’s also important for diabetics to do daily inspections of their feet to make sure there are no abrasions.

Your podiatrist can also recommend some tips to stay out of trouble. Shoewear that’s more accommodating can be recommended to diabetics so they stay active to keep their sugar in control. It’s important to make sure the foot type is paired with the correct shoe to avoid any blisters or sores that would heal slowly. Diabetic socks could also be recommended. These socks have no seams and help control moisture which helps avoid wrinkles. This helps reduce pressure and blistering in the shoe. These are just a few of the ways that podiatrists are vital to the care of diabetics in avoiding amputation and other complications of diabetes. For diabetic concerns with your feet come by and see Dr. Grimm or Dr. Pattison at Foot Associates of Central Texas.