The prevalence of amputations is high among people with diabetes, and many amputations stem from diabetic complications. If you have diabetes, the skilled podiatry team at United Foot & Ankle, provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment care to preserve your lower limb health. Find out more by booking an evaluation at any of the practice locations in East Brunswick, Keyport, Perth Amboy, Somerset, or Bayonne, New Jersey, today. Click on the online scheduling tool, or call the office nearest you to speak with a team member.

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How does diabetes affect my feet?

As you likely know, diabetes leads to a host of problems throughout your body. Blood sugar spikes that occur with diabetes can damage tissues and organs from head-to-toe.

Though this sort of widespread damage is a concern no matter where it occurs, it’s particularly troubling in your feet, since even the smallest of cuts or wounds can’t properly heal and can become severely infected. Some of the most common lower limb issues that affect people with diabetes include:

  • Nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy)
  • Peripheral vascular disease
  • Corn and callus formation
  • Toenail fungus
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Flat feet

Plus, when you have diabetes, the lack of blood flow to your feet leads to dehydrated and flaky skin. This symptom can make you more susceptible to suffering from wounds.

When should I see a podiatrist if I have diabetes?

United Foot & Ankle is proactive about preventive care. The team encourages you to schedule an exam regularly — typically once or twice a year — to have a comprehensive exam. This gives your dedicated podiatrist a chance to thoroughly evaluate the health of your lower extremities and talk with you about any concerns they may notice.

Outside of these preventive diabetic foot exams, you should come in to United Foot & Ankle if you see or feel any of the following:

  • Foot or ankle pain
  • Stinging or burning
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Visible, open wounds
  • Oozing, draining, or bleeding
  • Redness or skin that’s warm to the touch

These are warning signs of a potential diabetic foot wound that warrants swift medical intervention. Call the office right away if you’re experiencing any of these issues.

What happens during a diabetic foot exam?

United Foot & Ankle is dedicated to keeping your feet healthy and preventing serious limb-threatening ulcers. When you come in for your diabetic foot exam, not only does your podiatrist examine your feet, they also perform any of the following in-office treatments:

  • Ingrown toenail removal
  • Professional nail trimming
  • Corn and callus removal
  • Wound debridement

Your dedicated podiatrist at United Foot & Ankle can even get you fitted for a custom pair of orthotics or even specialized diabetic shoes to help lower your risk of wounds and ulcers.

United Foot & Ankle provides expert diabetic foot care using up-to-date diagnostic and treatment solutions. Find out more by booking an exam online or over the phone today.