Why Diabetic Foot Care Is Important

If you have diabetes, you know that this chronic condition threatens your foot health. At Centennial Foot & Ankle in North Las Vegas, NV, our outstanding podiatrist, Dr. David Biesinger, helps patients maintain great podiatric health, mobility and comfort. Diabetic foot care is so important. Here's why.

The problem of diabetes

Elevated blood glucose levels characteristic of Type-1 and Type-2 diabetes harm the nerve function and peripheral circulation in the lower extremities. The American Diabetes Association reports that anywhere from 12 to 50 percent of diabetics in the US have been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, with its symptoms of pain, tingling and numbness in the feet. Unfortunately, some individuals have no symptoms at all, but the health of their feet is in danger nonetheless.

As such, the diabetic foot quickly may develop infections, or ulcers in the toes, feet and ankles.

What you can do

The simple answer is to take good care of your feet. Your podiatrist, Dr. David Biesinger, can help. Here are suggestions for ongoing care at home:

• Manage your blood sugar levels (ask your primary care physician for help).
• Look at your feet every day. Notice changes in color and texture or breaks in the skin. Report changes to Dr. Biesinger right away.
• Wash and dry your feet daily, and change your socks every day or whenever you sweat.
• Wear roomy, closed-toe shoes with good arch support.
• Do not go barefoot, particularly when out of doors.
• Use anti-fungal cream regularly if Athlete's foot is a recurring problem.
• Keep your feet dry and warm in inclement weather.

Also, please see your podiatrist in North Las Vegas, NV, at least once a year for diabetic care. Dr. Biesinger will inspect your feet and remove corns and calluses as needed. If you have special areas of concern, he may suggest protection with customized shoe inserts, moleskin padding or even special diabetic shoes.

Contact Centennial Foot & Ankle

You--and your feet--can live well with diabetes. Let us help you do just that. Phone Dr. David Biesinger at his North Las Vegas, NV, office to fine-tune your diabetic foot care. Call (702) 852-2402.