Living with diabetes requires careful attention to your foot health. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and reduce blood flow, making your feet more vulnerable to injuries, infections, and serious complications. At St. Louis Foot & Ankle, our experienced podiatry team provides comprehensive care to prevent and treat diabetic foot problems, helping patients stay active and healthy.
If you have diabetes, regular foot exams and prompt treatment of any foot issues are essential for avoiding long-term complications.
📞 Call us today at (314) 596-9670 to schedule an appointment.
Why Diabetes Affects Your Feet
Diabetes can lead to two major conditions that impact the feet:
Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy occurs when prolonged high blood sugar damages the nerves. This can cause:
- Numbness or reduced feeling in the feet
- Tingling or burning sensations
- Loss of the ability to feel pain, heat, or cold
Because of this loss of sensation, small cuts, blisters, or injuries may go unnoticed and worsen over time.
Poor Circulation
Diabetes can also reduce blood flow to the feet. Poor circulation slows the healing process and increases the risk of infections and ulcers.
Common Diabetic Foot Problems
Patients with diabetes may experience several foot complications, including:
Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Foot ulcers are open sores that develop due to pressure, injury, or poor circulation. They commonly occur on the bottom of the foot and require prompt treatment to prevent infection.
Infections
Even minor cuts or blisters can develop into serious infections if left untreated. Diabetic infections may spread quickly and require medical attention.
Calluses and Corns
Thickened areas of skin can form due to abnormal pressure on the feet. Without proper care, these areas can break down and develop into ulcers.
Charcot Foot
Charcot foot is a serious condition where weakened bones in the foot can fracture or collapse, leading to deformity if not treated early.
Toenail Problems
Ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and thickened nails are common in diabetic patients and should be treated by a podiatrist to avoid complications.
Warning Signs of Diabetic Foot Issues
Contact a podiatrist if you notice:
- Cuts, blisters, or sores that do not heal
- Redness or swelling
- Drainage or foul odor from a wound
- Skin discoloration
- Persistent pain or numbness
- Changes in foot shape
Early treatment is critical to prevent complications.
Diabetic Foot Care and Prevention
Proper daily foot care can significantly reduce the risk of serious problems. Our podiatrists recommend:
- Inspecting your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or swelling
- Washing and drying your feet carefully, especially between the toes
- Wearing properly fitted shoes and socks
- Keeping blood sugar levels under control
- Avoiding walking barefoot
- Scheduling regular foot exams with a podiatrist
Preventive care is one of the most effective ways to protect your feet.
Diabetic Foot Treatment Options
At St. Louis Foot & Ankle, we provide advanced treatments for diabetic foot conditions, including:
- Diabetic foot exams
- Wound care for ulcers and infections
- Custom orthotics to reduce pressure points
- Callus and nail care
- Infection management
- Preventive care plans for high-risk patients
Our goal is to treat problems early and help you maintain healthy, pain-free feet.
Schedule a Diabetic Foot Exam Today
If you have diabetes, routine foot care can help prevent serious complications and protect your overall health. The specialists at St. Louis Foot & Ankle are here to provide expert diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care.
📞 Call St. Louis Foot & Ankle at (314) 596-9670 today to schedule your diabetic foot evaluation.