Diabetes can be a lot to manage, from everyday responsibilities like monitoring your blood sugar levels to keeping up with a variety of doctor's appointments. With everything that comes with having diabetes, it’s easy to overlook the importance of foot care.
Without the right care, diabetes can cause a number of complications that affect the feet, like nerve damage (neuropathy), poor circulation, and an increased risk of infection. If left unaddressed, these issues can result in severe consequences like ulcers, infections, and even amputation.
As a trusted and experienced podiatrist, Dr. Michael Ruiz, DPM, is dedicated to offering comprehensive and personalized care for individuals with diabetes. Dr. Ruiz firmly believes in a proactive approach to diabetic foot care, emphasizing the importance of daily foot care routines, regular check-ups, and early intervention to prevent complications.
Our wide array of services includes routine foot exams, neuropathy management, wound care and ulcer treatment, custom orthotics, and education. Let Dr. Michael Ruiz be your guide on the journey towards better foot health, starting with our comprehensive diabetic foot care services available at Lake Erie Podiatry.
Most everyone knows that diabetes is a condition that impacts blood sugar, but what you might not know is how that can affect your feet and ankles. When a person with diabetes has blood sugar levels that are too high for too long, it can cause nerve damage and poor circulation. This restricts the body’s ability to heal itself, often resulting in a number of issues. If you have diabetes, it's important to be aware of common symptoms associated with it. These include:
If you have diabetes and experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek expert diabetic foot care treatment from a qualified podiatrist like Dr. Michael Ruiz as soon as possible. With a professional and caring approach, Dr. Ruiz will help you diagnose and treat your condition in order to keep your feet healthy. Your diabetic foot treatment might include strategies like:
Preventing diabetic foot issues is crucial. By following these steps, you can help protect your feet from issues related to diabetes:
When you're shopping for shoes, always ensure you get a proper fit by having your feet measured by a professional. Choose shoes made of breathable materials, like leather or canvas, and ones with the right cushioning and arch support to help distribute pressure evenly. Once you bring your new shoes home, break them in gradually.
Additionally, avoid high heels or shoes with pointed toes that can cause excessive pressure on specific areas of the foot. And remember - never go barefoot!
Early signs of diabetic foot issues may include numbness or tingling sensations, cold or discolored feet, swelling, dry and cracked skin, calluses, corns, or changes in the shape of your feet. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult Dr. Ruiz and Lake Erie Podiatry for proper evaluation and management.
At Lake Erie Podiatry, Dr. Ruiz is dedicated to providing personalized and comprehensive care for individuals with diabetes. His services range from routine foot exams to wound care and custom orthotics. He will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals. To get started, schedule your appointment with us today!