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Diabetes is a complex disease affecting many parts of the body, including the feet. At Advanced Regional Center for Orthopedics & Podiatry in Altoona, State College, Ebensburg, Huntingdon, and Bedford, skilled podiatrists provide comprehensive diabetic foot care, managing general foot health and providing expert wound care for diabetic foot ulcers. Even a small blister on the foot can turn into a serious problem for people with diabetes. Call the office nearest you today or make an appointment online for expert diabetic foot care from an experienced team.
What is diabetic foot care?
Diabetic foot care is one of the many medical services you need when you have diabetes.
People with diabetes have too much sugar (glucose) in their blood because they can’t make or properly use insulin, the hormone that transports sugar from the blood into cells for energy. The excess blood sugar can damage blood vessels, tissues, and organs.
The feet are especially vulnerable because they have smaller blood vessels and are more susceptible to damage. Without adequate blood supply, cuts and blisters on the feet take longer to heal. And because excess sugar also damages nerves in the feet, you may not feel a cut or blister.
Lack of blood supply and sensation may delay healing and expert treatment, increasing the risk of an infection that could lead to limb amputation.
When do I need diabetic foot care?
Diabetic foot care is among the general health care needs for people with diabetes and should start around the time of diagnosis.
Advanced Regional Center for Orthopedics & Podiatry is a leader in podiatry care, providing expert and advanced diabetic foot care for general foot health and wounds.
After your initial comprehensive diabetic foot exam, your provider explains when you need follow-up care. You also need diabetic foot care if you have a foot problem such as toenail fungus, blisters, calluses, or cuts. The sooner you come in, the better.
The team at Advanced Regional Center for Orthopedics & Podiatry can evaluate your foot and provide the appropriate treatment to reduce the risk of an infection.
What can I expect during a diabetic foot exam?
You can expect a thorough and patient-centered diabetic foot exam at Advanced Regional Center for Orthopedics & Podiatry. Your podiatrist reviews your medical history and how you have been managing your diabetes.
They examine your feet for deformities, skin changes, and ulcers. They also evaluate sensation and circulation in the feet and measure your feet.
Your podiatrist talks to you about their findings and recommendations, which may include custom-made orthotics or special shoes to protect your feet from injury. They also explain how to care for your feet at home to keep them healthy.
Call Advanced Regional Center for Orthopedics & Podiatry today or schedule your diabetic foot care exam online.