Everyone – men, women, and children – should visit a board-certified podiatrist like Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos once a year for preventative care. This is especially important for people with diabetes.
What Is Diabetes?
In your body, there is a small gland called the pancreas. It is responsible for producing the hormone insulin, which is necessary for proper regulation of blood glucose (sugar) levels. When the pancreas fails, even partially, diabetes occurs.
What Are the Effects of Diabetes on Foot Health?
While a whole-body illness that produces global symptoms, diabetes poses particular risks to foot health. Here are three common situations:
- Skin changes caused by diabetes are common. Poor circulation can lead to extremely dry skin that cracks or peels. Calluses can build up, especially in weight-bearing areas such as the heels or the balls of the feet.
- Diabetic neuropathy occurs when there is nerve damage. It can cause unpleasant sensations including burning, stinging, and tingling. It can also lead to numbness and a loss of feeling in the feet.
- The numbness caused by neuropathy can make it difficult to perceive the discomfort that might typically be associated with small nicks, cuts, or something as seemingly inconsequential as an ingrown toenail. This means that diabetics don’t always seek treatment quickly. Infection can set in. Small injuries can become diabetic ulcers, deep wounds that won’t heal. Hospitalization can be necessary. Amputation and even death can result.
Your podiatrist is a medical expert with years of specialized training and experience. They are the best-qualified professional to care for your feet, ankles, and lower legs. A foot doctor like Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM will examine your feet, take note of any existing or potential problems, diagnose any illnesses or injuries, and work with you to create an individualized and effective plan for treatment and ongoing care.
Schedule a convenient appointment in the modern, comfortable My Chicago Foot Expert office today. Call our friendly staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to get started.