Diabetes afflicts millions of people worldwide, but there are still plenty of misconceptions regarding it. While managing blood sugar levels is crucial, foot care is often overlooked, leading to severe complications that could have been avoided.

This is where expert DPMs like those at Syracuse Podiatry come in. Foot and ankle specialists play a vital role in preventing and treating diabetes-related foot problems, significantly improving health outcomes for individuals with the condition. Let’s break down a few of the ways they get that done.

1. Early Detection and Prevention:

• • Diabetic neuropathy, a nerve damage complication, can cause numbness and decreased sensation in your feet.
  • This means you might not notice cuts, blisters, or other injuries, leading to infections and even amputations.
  • Podiatrists are trained to detect early signs of neuropathy and other foot problems associated with diabetes, allowing for prompt intervention and prevention.

2. Personalized Treatment Plans:

• • A podiatrist assesses your individual needs and risk factors, creating a personalized treatment plan that addresses specific foot concerns.
  • Your plan might include recommending proper footwear, orthotics, wound care management, and strategies to improve circulation or prevent infections.

3. Education and Empowerment:

• • Living with diabetes requires lifestyle changes and proactive management.
  • Podiatrists will educate you on proper foot hygiene, nail care, and techniques for checking your feet for any abnormalities daily.

4. Improved Quality of Life:

• • Foot problems significantly impact your quality of life, limiting mobility and causing pain.
  • Regular podiatric check-ups ensure healthy feet, allowing you to maintain an active lifestyle and participate in activities you enjoy.

5. Reduced Healthcare Costs:

• • Regular podiatric care can significantly reduce healthcare costs associated with diabetes.
  • Studies have shown that podiatric intervention can decrease hospital admissions and amputations, leading to substantial cost savings in the long run.
  • A 2021 study published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association found that podiatric intervention reduced the risk of foot ulcers by 50% in patients with diabetes.

If any of the above information gives you cause for concern or you’re currently struggling to manage diabetic complications, contact us! Expert DPMs Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, Dr. Anne-Louise Smith, Dr. Justin Muser, and Dr. Nicholas Cronin are ready to answer your questions and treat your feet.