What is it?

Diabetes is caused by your body’s inability to regulate glucose (or sugar) properly. It can affect the feet in many ways, resulting in diabetic foot pain and ulcers.

• Loss of sensation
• Decreased blood flow
• Unstable walking and frequent falls
• Ulcers (holes in your feet) can form and lead to infection or amputation if left untreated.

Symptoms

Neuropathy (nerve damage) may initially feel like a numb tingling or burning sensation in your toes. This can be a very painful condition – yet it feels numb, too.

Circulation (or blood flow) may be decreased causing a cramping feeling in the back of your leg when you are walking. Pain in your feet that wakes you up from a peaceful sleep can also indicate a diabetic foot pain problem with blood getting to your feet.

Diabetic Foot Treatment

First and foremost, you must get and keep your sugar levels tightly controlled. Good control of your diabetes helps to reduce complications and diabetic foot pain that can occur in your feet.

Prevention is the key!

• Stay active
• Stay on a fitness plan
• Eat well
• Stick to your diabetic diet
• Inspect your feet daily. Look for cuts, blood, or bruising (and then call us right away if you see any of these)
• Dry your feet well after bathing
• Wear shoes that fit properly (You may be eligible for custom fit shoes and protective orthotics through your insurance)
• If you see a hole in your foot, call us immediately, before it gets bigger

The ideal time to see a Cincinnati podiatrist for diabetic foot care is before you need it!

Additional Sources