Those who suffer from diabetes know that they are at a much higher risk of developing foot and ankle injuries. Not only are injuries more likely, but serious foot disease is more likely to occur in diabetics. One such serious disease is known as Peripheral Neuropathy. This condition causes the foot to slowly lose the ability to sense pain and other feelings. This means that when there is an injury on the foot, a diabetic person with this condition is less likely to notice and treat the wound, which would then fester and become infected. This poses a big risk and can cause severe complications.

Diabetic Foot Problems that can turn severe

• Diabetics are more likely to suffer from ulcers and wounds that do not heal. This is because of poor blood circulation in their body. Blisters and cuts that would heal quickly on anyone else would struggle and could become infected.
• Corns and calluses that are continuously under pressure can cause ulcers to appear on a diabetic foot.
• Dry, cracked skin can also be a recipe for trouble. This is because as the skin cracks, it invites bacteria in and may cause infection to begin to fester within the foot.
• Fungal toenails can spread along the foot and cause infection, gangrene, and open wounds.
• Hammertoes and bunions are common deformities anyone can face. Diabetics can have complications from these deformities because they can lead to ulcers from built up pressure.
• Poor blood flow can also be a problem for those who suffer from diabetes. This is because poor blood flow can lead to the death of tissues in the foot. This tissue death can spread and cause infection and amputation.

Stay Ahead of The Game

If you have diabetes it is important to be proactive with your foot health. Make sure to visit your podiatrist regularly and care for your feet with the following tips:

• Inspect your feet daily
• Look for any skin or nail problems regularly. If you see a cut, a bruise, a blister, some fungus, or anything else that seems suspicious, report it to your podiatrist immediately.
• If you think that you may have suffered a foot fracture call your podiatrist or seek medical attention immediately.
• If your legs begin to ache, do not ignore it. You may be suffering from low blood flow.
• Be sure to cut your nails straight across to avoid ingrown nails that could become infected.
• Make sure your house is clean and free of any debris or object that could cause you to suffer from an open wound

Living with diabetes can be complicated, but the health of your feet does not have to be. Call Syracuse Podiatry located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico and his staff will help you manage your diabetic feet. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.