Why Every Diabetic Should Have a Podiatrist on Their Care Team

When you think of diabetes management, you probably think of healthy eating, managing your blood sugar, and getting more activity in your day. You might not think of your feet. Yet, foot problems are common among people with diabetes. 

Some of those common issues include reduced blood circulation, neuropathy, and even infections. At Sports City USA Foot & Ankle Center in McKinney, Texas, Dr. Benjamin Clair assesses your feet and medical history to prevent diabetic-related complications with your feet. He can spot early signs of potential diabetic complications to improve your life. 

Why diabetes affects your feet 

You may think of diabetes as primarily affecting your blood sugar, but it can also affect your blood circulation and can damage your nerves. 

For example, peripheral neuropathy is a condition that damages the nerves in your feet. This damage can lead to tingling, numbness, pain, or burning sensations. You’re at greater risk of undetected injuries if you lose feeling in your feet.

Diabetes often causes poor blood circulation, which can lead to numb feet. Less circulation also means slower healing if you injure your foot or lower leg. Diabetes compromises your immune system, too, so even minor cuts or blisters can escalate into serious infections quickly. 

Then there’s a condition called Charcot foot. People with this condition find their foot bones can weaken or even fracture. Because their feet are numb, they don’t feel it, and their entire foot can reshape itself into a deformity.

The benefits of having a podiatrist on your team

When your feet are healthy, you get around more easily and with less pain. As a person with diabetes, your feet play an even bigger role in your overall health and mobility. While you monitor your blood sugar, plan healthy meals, and work more physical activity into your schedule, ensuring your feet stay healthy is also essential. 

When you incorporate a podiatrist into your medical care team, you have a foot specialist trained to evaluate your feet for potential complications and to create a customized care plan for your diabetes management program. 

Practice good foot hygiene

As a person with diabetes, you need to ensure your feet are healthy. You start with clean feet, regular toenail trimmings, and well-fitting shoes. Notice how much feeling you have in your feet and regularly check them for blisters, sores, or cuts. 

Diabetic foot care is critical. Make sure your feet are healthy and that you maintain your mobility. Dr. Clair has specialized knowledge in preventing, diagnosing, and managing diabetic foot concerns. 

Sports City USA Foot & Ankle Center serves Frisco, McKinney, Prosper, and Celina, Texas. To schedule an appointment, call our office or request a visit online today.