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Diabetic Foot Care

The Foot Institute

Angelo Morreale, DPM

Podiatrist & Foot Surgeon located in Shreveport, LA & Natchitoches, LA

Nerve and blood vessel problems often cause serious foot problems for those with diabetes. Without excellent diabetic foot care, you’re at risk for problems like ulcers, peripheral neuropathy, calluses, and possibly even amputation. At The Foot Institute in Shreveport and Natchitoches, Louisiana, you’ll find comprehensive diabetic foot care and preventive help, too. Board-certified podiatrist Angelo Morreale, DPM, has more than 30 years of experience in treating diabetic feet successfully. Call the office nearest you or use the online scheduler for an appointment.

Diabetic Foot Care Q & A

What kinds of foot problems does diabetes cause?

Diabetes causes many serious issues with your feet, including: 

Peripheral neuropathy

The first diabetic foot problem is usually peripheral neuropathy, which means damage in the peripheral nerves that supply sensation in your feet. Peripheral neuropathy can cause tingling, pain, and numbness. Numbness is a particular problem because you might not realize you have a foot injury. 

Lack of normal nerve sensation can also lead to poor muscle control. This, in turn, can cause abnormal foot movements and potentially leave you at risk for foot deformities like Charcot foot or hammertoe. 

Vascular damage

Vascular damage is common in diabetics. Narrowed peripheral blood vessels reduce blood supply (and therefore oxygen and nutrients) to wounds, which inhibits healing drastically.

Other aspects of diabetes, for example, vision loss, can contribute to diabetic foot issues as well. If your vision fades, it's more difficult to see small wounds. An unnoticed wound can soon ulcerate, especially when you have foot numbness and poor circulation.  

How can I prevent diabetic foot damage?

Dr. Morreale gives his patients at The Foot Institute individualized recommendations for maintaining healthy feet and preventing diabetic foot complications. These include: 

  • Examine your feet daily for cuts, blisters, wounds, and other issues
  • Lightly exfoliate your feet after soaking
  • Wash your feet daily with lukewarm water and gentle soap
  • Moisturize your feet with lotions daily
  • Cut toenails in a straight line
  • Always wear soft, moisture-wicking socks
  • Never go barefoot, even indoors
  • Don't cross your legs when sitting, as it inhibits circulation

Of course, you must also control the issue at the root of your foot problems: your blood sugar. Work with your doctor to make healthy changes like losing weight, improving your diet, and quitting smoking.

How often do I need diabetic foot care from my foot doctor?

See Dr. Morreale for diabetic foot checkups at The Foot Institute at least twice a year. Regular checkups are vital because diabetes is such a fast-moving disease when complications occur. 

By following Dr. Morreale’s recommendations for caring for your feet at home and having professional treatments like wound healing when needed, you can preserve your health now and for the rest of your life. 

Stay a step ahead of diabetic foot damage by scheduling your appointment at The Foot Institute online or by phone.