Preuss Podiatry provides diabetic foot care for patients in Louisville, KY and Floyds Knobs, IN. We see many patients with diabetes, and our focus is simple: catch problems early so they never become wounds, infections or amputations.
If you are someone with diabetes, it is imperative to have routine examinations as diabetes can greatly affect the nerves and circulation of your feet.
Preventing diabetic complications and amputation
The podiatrists at Preuss Podiatry are experts in treating, diagnosing and preventing complications associated with being a diabetic. Routine diabetic foot care can help to prevent ulcerations and infections as timely detection decreases the chance of amputation.
What happens at a diabetic foot exam
At your visit, your podiatrist will:
- Check the feeling in your feet for signs of neuropathy
- Check the pulses and circulation in your feet
- Look for calluses, corns, cracks, blisters or sores
- Check your toenails and trim thick or difficult nails
- Look at your shoes and talk about whether you need diabetic shoes or inserts
Most people with diabetes should have their feet checked at least once a year, and more often if you have neuropathy, poor circulation or a past ulcer. Your doctor will tell you how often to come in.
Tingly or burning feet (neuropathy)
Burning, tingling or numbness in the feet can be a sign of neuropathy. It is common in people with diabetes and can keep you from feeling a cut or blister. Learn more about neuropathy treatment.
Peripheral arterial disease (P.A.D.)
Peripheral arterial disease is when the arteries in the leg become blocked or narrowed resulting in decreased blood flow into the feet. Smoking, plaque formation from high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity can all lead to peripheral arterial disease. Poor circulation in the feet can cause cold feet, cramping in the feet and legs, burning, tingling, and numbness in the feet, and poor wound healing potential.
The podiatrists can order tests to aid in the diagnosis and offer treatment options such as lifestyle changes, medications and/or referrals to vascular surgery when needed.
Swollen feet
Edema, also known as swelling, is a condition where excess fluid accumulates in the legs or feet. There are a multitude of causes for swelling in the feet including poor circulation, heart failure, kidney disease, liver disease and even medications. It is important to not ignore swelling of the legs or feet as it is often an indicator of another underlying condition. Wearing properly fitted compression garments and elevating the legs is key in helping to control the amount of swelling.
Daily foot care tips for people with diabetes
- Look at your feet every day, including between the toes. Use a mirror or ask for help if needed.
- Wash and dry your feet daily, especially between the toes.
- Never walk barefoot, even at home.
- Wear shoes and socks that fit well and do not rub.
- Don’t cut corns or calluses yourself or use over-the-counter corn removers.
- Keep your blood sugar in your target range.
When to call us right away
Call Preuss Podiatry the same day if you notice a sore or blister that is not healing, new redness, warmth or swelling, drainage or a bad smell, or a change in the color of your foot. With diabetes, small problems can become serious quickly.
Schedule an appointment
At any of the Louisville, KY or Floyds Knobs, IN locations, the skillful doctors are there to provide comprehensive foot and ankle care in order to promote a better quality of life for our patients. Call today and schedule an appointment at a location convenient to you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover diabetic foot care?
Medicare covers foot exams and care for many patients with diabetes and nerve damage. Call our office and we can tell you what applies to you.
Should a person with diabetes cut their own toenails?
If you have neuropathy, poor circulation or thick nails, let us trim them. A small cut can turn into a wound.
Can neuropathy be reversed?
Nerve damage often cannot be fully reversed, but good blood sugar control and regular foot care help prevent it from getting worse and protect your feet.
