Diabetes and Your Feet

Over 34 million American men, women, and children – nearly 1 in 10 – have diabetes. This illness occurs when a gland called the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin. A hormone, insulin, is responsible for helping the body to regulate levels of blood sugar glucose. Diabetes is a whole-body illness that poses particular risks to foot health. November is American Diabetes Month, and Middlesex County podiatrists Dr. Jason Grossman and Dr. Paul A. Osemene want you to know more.

Diabetes can cause a range of issues in the feet. These include:

Neuropathy – A form of nerve damage to the feet, neuropathy can cause uncomfortable feelings of numbness and tingling, or even a sensation like there is a sock bunched up under the toes.

Poor circulation – Diabetes can impact the body’s ability to ensure adequate blood flow to the extremities, and it can cause you to feel cold, even in warm weather.

Diabetic wounds – When you combine nerve damage and poor circulation, it becomes easy for minor nicks and cuts to go unnoticed and become infected and extremely difficult to heal. These deep, long-lasting injuries are known as diabetic ulcers.

Have you been diagnosed with diabetes? Be sure to take all medication as directed and follow your doctor’s instructions about diet and lifestyle changes that can positively affect your blood sugar.

Additionally, while everyone should see a foot doctor once a year for preventative care, this is even more important for people with diabetes. The single best thing you can do to prevent diabetes from impacting your foot health is to schedule a visit with a podiatrist like Jason Grossman, DPM, and Paul A. Osemene, DPM. With years of education and experience, including a hospital residency, your podiatrist is a medical specialist and is the best-qualified doctor to examine your feet, ankles, and lower legs; diagnose any existing or developing issues, and work with you to create an effective and individualized plan for treatment.

Call the friendly Advanced Feet and Ankle Care staff at (732) 679-4330 or click here to schedule your next appointment today.