Our Services / Diabetic Foot

What are diabetic foot problems?

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease that affects your body’s ability to regulate blood glucose (sugar). If your blood sugar levels remain high for an extended period, you’re more likely to experience conditions that affect your feet. 

For example, when left untreated, diabetes often results in neuropathy or permanent nerve damage. If the nerves in your feet don’t work as they should, you might step on a sharp object but not realize it. Over time, that puncture wound could become infected, resulting in gangrene or the need for amputation.

What are some common diabetic foot problems?

At Long Lake Podiatry, P.C., Dr. Berlin treats various diabetic foot problems, including:

• Diabetic neuropathy
• Peripheral vascular disease
• Athlete’s foot
• Fungal infection of the toenails
• Calluses
• Corns
• Blisters
• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Diabetic ulcers
• Ingrown toenails
• Plantar warts

Diabetes also makes your skin dry. When your skin dries out, it’s more susceptible to cracks and bacterial infection.

Who can benefit from diabetic foot care?

Anyone with diabetes can benefit from diabetic foot care. If you’ve been diagnosed with any type of diabetes, it’s important to make an appointment at Long Lake Podiatry, P.C. at least once a year. Routine check-ups with Dr. Berlin can alert you to potentially serious issues when they’re easiest to treat.

What’s more, diabetic foot care appointments present an opportunity to ask questions, discuss unusual symptoms, and learn about the importance of daily foot care. Dr. Berlin can make recommendations to keep your feet healthy for years to come. 

What does diabetic foot care involve?

At Long Lake Podiatry, P.C., Dr. Berlin tailors diabetic foot care to each individual’s unique needs. Before developing a custom treatment plan, he reviews your medical history, asks about your symptoms, and physically examines your feet and toes. 

If your diabetes is in check and your feet appear healthy, Dr. Berlin recommends a wait and watch approach. If your diabetes is out of control and you’re experiencing foot-related issues, Dr. Berlin makes recommendations to ease your symptoms and encourage your body’s natural healing process.

Typically, Dr. Berlin recommends:

• Monitoring your blood sugar daily
• Inspecting your feet for cuts, blisters, sores, or other problems daily
• Washing your feet with warm soap and water 
• Checking your toenails once a week
• Always wearing socks and shoes
• Quitting smoking

If you have poor circulation, Dr. Berlin might also recommend wearing compression stockings or sitting with your feet up to improve blood flow.

To receive treatment for a diabetic foot problem, make an appointment at Long Lake Podiatry, P.C. by calling the nearest office or clicking the online scheduling tool today.