Why it's Important for Diabetics to See a Foot Doctor Regularly

Last updated 10 months ago

Did you know that every 30 seconds a leg is amputated due to diabetes? Diabetes may not seem like a serious disease, but in matters of podiatry, it’s one of the leading causes of amputation of lower limbs. In fact, 25% of diabetics will likely lose feeling in their feet, develop changes in foot shape, or suffer from foot ulcers or sores. Avoiding problems with your feet is a smart solution for healthy feet.

Diabetes develops as a result of the body failing to produce insulin, the substance necessary to process food into energy. The effect this has on the vascular system leads to the development of foot problems. Lack of insulin results in poor circulation, which reduces the amount of oxygen and nutrients being sent to the feet. This makes it difficult for the foot to heal itself, resulting in ulcers, infection, and serious foot conditions.
Neuropathy is a side effect of diabetes, marked by decreased sensation beginning in the feet. An inability to feel your feet means foot wounds may remain untreated, further complicating what could have been an easy fix.
Poor circulation combined with neuropathy tends to lead to diabetic foot, which can result in ulceration, infection, or neuropathic osteoarthropathy. If you have diabetes, then you should be inspecting your feet every day, especially because many lower limb complications are completely preventable. Corrective foot surgery is an option prior to health or circulation deterioration, so always monitor your foot health and schedule regular appointments with your foot doctor.

At Gramercy Park Podiatry, we recommend diabetics schedule a checkup with a foot doctor at least once a year. Our expert podiatrists specialize in treatment of hammertoes, bunions, plantar fasciitis, and more. Call our office at (212) 995-1500 to make an appointment.