What your podiatrist in Tyler, Texas, wants you to know
Diabetes is a life-altering disease that is also very common. In fact, according to the American Diabetes Association, over 29 million people in the U.S. suffer from it. This systemic disease affects nearly every major system in your body. It also dramatically affects your extremities, including your feet. Dr. James Kent at East Texas Foot & Ankle Center in Tyler, Texas, wants to help you take care of your feet, especially if you have diabetes.
Diabetes affects your circulatory system, which can cause lack of adequate blood flow to your feet and toes. Diabetes also causes problems with your immune system. This means that if you get a small open wound or blister, it may not heal and may get infected.
Your nervous system is also affected by diabetes, resulting in loss of feeling in your feet. You may damage your feet and be totally unaware of it because you may not feel any pain. Peripheral neuropathy in your feet is a common and potentially debilitating problem associated with diabetes.
So how do you take care of your feet if you are diabetic? You should follow some simple rules to prevent foot problems.
You need to:
- Avoid hot water, electric blankets or heating pads; you can burn your feet and you might not feel pain.
- Avoid going barefoot; wear socks and supportive shoes to avoid injuring your feet.
- Wash and dry your feet daily; apply cream or lotion to keep your feet moisturized.
- Examine your feet daily using a hand mirror to check the sides and bottoms of your feet; look for small cuts, bruises or blisters.
- Do simple stretching exercises for your ankles, feet and toes to keep blood circulating.
If you have diabetes, you must visit your podiatrist regularly to have your feet examined by a professional. Your feet deserve the care of a specialist, so call Dr. James Kent at East Texas Foot & Ankle Center in Tyler, Texas. Call today and take care of your feet!