At Family Foot and Ankle Center in Ashburn, Fairfax, McLean and Reston, VA, our team of seven podiatrists prioritize diabetic foot care. Why is this so important? Well, diabetics are prone to dangerous neuropathy and impaired peripheral circulation. To avoid complications, feet need daily care and routine attention from a skilled podiatrist.
The numbers are worrisome
The American Diabetes Association says that 230 diabetics undergo amputation procedures in the United States every day. How does this startling statistic happen?
The story is this: diabetics, particularly those who have wide blood sugar variations, suffer from neuropathy and poor peripheral circulation. In short, their feet and hands do not receive the healthy blood flow that they need, damaging nerves and reducing the ability to perceive heat, cold, and pressure.
Consequently, diabetics may have injuries, infections, and skin problems that they do not even know about until the conditions have progressed. These conditions may lead to infection, necrosis (tissue death), and the need for an amputation of the toes or limbs.
What you can do
As scary as these numbers are, your podiatrists in Ashburn, Fairfax, McLean and Reston, VA, can show you ways to keep your feet and ankles as healthy as possible while you manage your diabetes. Regular in-office visits to Family Foot and Ankle Center are must-haves; however, your due diligence at home will aid in keeping your feet healthy and functional for the long-term, as well.
At-home foot care
Here's how you can keep your feet as healthy as possible as you manage your diabetes:
- Look at—and manually feel—your feet every day to inspect them for changes in temperature, color, cuts, bruises, corns, calluses, and points of pressure and friction.
- Wash your feet with a mild soap and warm water daily. Dry them completely, as well.
- Wear clean moisture-wicking socks every day. Make sure they fit well and aren't bunched up at the toes or sides of your feet.
- Never go barefoot (even indoors) to avoid injury and fungal infections, such as athlete's foot.
Additionally, never remove corns or calluses at home—see your foot doctor for in-office removal. Also, stop all smoking as it impairs micro-circulation, keep control of your blood sugars, and lose weight if you need to.
Take care of your feet
Contact Family Foot and Ankle Center for any questions or concerns you have. We have four offices to serve you. In Fairfax, phone (703) 273-9818. In Reston, call (703) 273-2719. For the Ashburn location, call (703) 273-9267, and in McLean, phone us at (703) 556-8637.