Causes of Diabetic Foot Complications
Diabetic foot complications arise due to various factors. People with diabetes are particularly vulnerable to foot problems because of:

• Neuropathy: Nerve damage from diabetes can cause a lack of sensation in the feet, making injuries go unnoticed.
• Poor Circulation: Reduced blood flow to the extremities makes it harder for injuries to heal, increasing the risk of infection.
• Foot Deformities: Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or calluses can create areas of pressure, leading to sores or ulcers.
• Irritation and Injury: Friction from ill-fitting shoes or minor cuts during nail or callus care can result in open sores.

Symptoms to Watch For
Because neuropathy can mask pain, many people with diabetes may not notice foot problems until they become severe. Early symptoms to look out for include:

• Drainage: Unexplained fluid in your socks or shoes could be a sign of a wound or ulcer.
• Redness and Swelling: Inflammation around a sore or cut might indicate infection.
• Unusual Odors: Foul smells can develop if a wound has become infected.

The Importance of Prevention
Proactive care is the best way to prevent severe diabetic foot complications. Regular podiatric check-ups can identify issues early. At each visit, the following preventive steps should be taken:

• Routine Foot Exams: A thorough examination of your feet by a professional to check for cuts, infections, and signs of neuropathy.
• Nail and Callus Trimming: Regular maintenance to prevent ingrown toenails or callus-related ulcers.
• Circulation Testing: Evaluating the blood flow in your feet to ensure there are no blockages or slow healing areas.

Preventing and Managing Infections
Preventing infection is crucial in diabetic foot care. Our podiatrists focus on stopping infections before they start, using methods such as:

• Cleaning and Bandaging: Proper cleaning and application of sterile dressings to keep wounds safe from bacteria.
• Antibiotic Therapy: Prescription medications are often necessary if an infection develops.

Off-Loading Techniques
Reducing pressure on affected areas is vital for healing foot ulcers. Techniques include:

• Specialized Footwear: Custom shoes or orthotics designed to alleviate pressure on vulnerable areas.
• Casting or Boots: In severe cases, a total contact cast or removable boot can be used to immobilize the foot and allow it to heal.

Debridement and Medication
Effective treatment often involves debridement, which is the removal of dead or infected tissue. This process helps the wound heal more effectively by removing barriers to new skin growth. Additionally, medication such as wound-healing gels or dressings with antibiotics may be applied to the affected area.

Surgical Intervention
While most diabetic foot issues are treated without surgery, some situations require more advanced intervention. Surgical options may include:

• Bone Removal: Shaving or removing small bones to relieve pressure on ulcers.
• Correction of Deformities: Surgery may be needed to correct issues like hammertoes or bunions that contribute to chronic pressure sores.

Reducing the Risk of Amputation
Diabetes is a leading cause of amputations, but with regular care, this outcome is preventable. Early detection and treatment of foot ulcers significantly lower the risk of infection, which can lead to amputation if untreated.

Routine Check-Ups and Monitoring
A proactive approach to diabetic foot care includes scheduling regular visits with a podiatrist every 2-3 months. At each visit, the following steps are taken to protect your foot health:

• Sensation Tests: Checking for neuropathy with specialized equipment to measure your foot’s sensitivity to pressure, temperature, and vibrations.
• Circulation Checks: Ensuring that blood flow to the foot is adequate, as poor circulation can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.

Managing Blood Glucose Levels
An essential part of diabetic foot care is maintaining proper blood sugar levels. Poorly managed diabetes can lead to complications like neuropathy and vascular disease, which increase the risk of foot ulcers. Our team coordinates with your primary care doctor and endocrinologist to ensure that your diabetes is well-controlled.

Personalized Care Plans
At Modern Foot & Ankle, we understand that every patient’s needs are unique. Our team works with you to create a treatment plan tailored specifically to your condition, whether you need preventive care, wound management, or surgical treatment. We aim to prevent complications before they occur and minimize the risk of future issues.

Advanced Techniques and Technology
We utilize the latest in podiatric care, including state-of-the-art equipment for diagnosing and treating diabetic foot conditions. Our commitment to using advanced technology ensures you receive the most effective care possible.

Compassionate and Experienced Team
Living with diabetes can be challenging, and our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way. Our specialists have extensive experience treating diabetic foot issues, from common ulcers to complex cases requiring surgery. You can trust that your foot health is in expert hands.

Coordinated Care for Better Outcomes
We work closely with your broader healthcare team to provide holistic, well-rounded care. By coordinating with your primary physician and other specialists, we ensure that your diabetic foot care is integrated into your overall diabetes management plan.