What your podiatrist in Jersey City wants you to know.
If you have diabetes, you already know how it affects your body. You are bruising more easily, and your skin might feel dry. The truth is diabetes affects your feet too. Diabetes can have a severe impact on your feet because of the circulatory, immune, and nervous system changes that happen. You can do a lot to protect your feet when you have diabetes. Dr. Edward Tjoe in Jersey City, NJ wants to share what you need to do for diabetic foot care.
If you have diabetes, you are not alone. In fact, over 29 million people in the United States have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Diabetic changes in your circulatory system result in impaired blood flow to your toes and feet. When you don’t have adequate blood flow it can lead to soft tissue death and amputation.
Diabetic changes in your immune system can result in delayed or restricted healing. If you have an open wound in your feet, it may get infected, resulting in a painful diabetic ulcer.
Diabetic changes in your nervous system can result in loss of sensation in your feet. You may injure your feet and not even know it, or you may feel heightened nerve pain in your feet, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy.
If you have diabetes, you need to take care of your feet by:
Remember to avoid conditions that can injure your feet. Avoid hot water or other sources of heat because you can burn your feet and not feel it. Avoid walking barefoot because you can injure your feet and not know it. Always wear socks and supportive shoes to cushion your feet.
Don’t forget to visit your podiatrist regularly for a thorough examination of your feet. For more information about diabetic foot care and other foot care services, call Dr. Tjoe in Jersey City, NJ today!
