Diabetic Foot

Diabetes is a systemic illness that affects many different parts of the body —  this is especially true for the feet. At the podiatry practice of Advanced Ankle and Foot Center in Columbus, Georgia, highly skilled podiatrist and diabetic foot specialist John Schoppe, DPM, has years of experience treating legs, ankles, feet, and diabetes. Dr. Schoppe helps patients to live healthy and long lives through exceptional care and diabetes management. Call the office to learn more and schedule your visit. Or request an appointment online, which is quick and convenient.

What are the first signs of diabetic foot?

Symptoms of diabetic foot include:

• Burning
• Tingling
• Dull ache
• Pain
• Reduced ability to feel heat or cold
• Loss of sense of touch
• Changes in the shape of feet over time
• Loss of hair on toes, feet, and lower legs

Contact your doctor if you notice red skin around blisters. Often, blisters heal independently, but a medical professional can help reduce the risk of infection.

Over time, diabetes can lead to damaged blood vessels, nerves, and organs. Any cut, sore, or wound should be taken seriously.

Is diabetic foot serious?

A minor cut in a diabetic foot can become a wound that won’t heal if not identified and treated promptly.  

They might develop into deep ulcers, leading to gangrene, infection, and, in worst-case scenarios, amputation.

What is the diabetic foot care protocol? 

Daily foot care is essential for diabetic patients to maintain health and avoid serious foot problems. Dr. Schoppe suggests the following: 

Inspect feet daily 

Examine your feet and toes every day. See a podiatrist if you spot any cuts, blisters, bruises, hot spots, or disturbances in the skin. 

Hygiene

Keep the feet clean and dry, especially in between the toes. Be sure to moisturize the feet if they feel dry or rough. Keep toenails trimmed straight across but not too short, which can lead to ingrown toenails. 

Make an appointment with your podiatrist to trim your nails if you cannot.

Proper footwear

Socks should always be worn with shoes and not be tight at the ankles. Diabetic socks can help keep moisture away from feet and improve circulation.

Shoes should be made of natural materials, fit properly, and be comfortable with plenty of room in the toe box.

Never walk barefoot.

Extreme temperatures 

Never use an electric blanket or heating pad on the feet. Be sure to protect your feet from extreme heat and cold.

Corn and callus removal

If you have a corn or callus, do not attempt to remove it. Please make an appointment with a podiatrist to have them take care of it safely.

You can also speak to the Advanced Ankle and Foot Center staff to check if additional steps are needed to help manage pre-diabetes or diabetes.

If you or a loved one has diabetes, ensuring your feet are healthy is essential. Call Advanced Ankle and Foot Center to schedule an appointment, or request one online.