You may know a foot doctor by the work they do to repair sprains, breaks and growths. These professionals also have the knowledge and training to care for patients who suffer from diabetes. If you or a loved one have this disease and feel its effects in the lower limbs, a podiatrist can help. Before the symptoms get too severe, make sure you find a foot doctor near you to evaluate your condition and prescribe treatment.
Signs in the foot that a person has diabetes
Diabetes can manifest itself throughout a person’s body. The feet are no exception. This condition can attack the lower extremities, eventually leading to the need for amputation. Before a patient gets to this point, it is good to look for troublesome clues. Diabetic patients will often see color changes in their feet, along with swelling in the foot or ankle. The individual may also experience numbness or tingling. Some people with diabetes began to have infections in their feet or may suffer from cracks or excessive dryness.
Meeting with the patient
A person with diabetes may have appointments with multiple health care providers. The person should include a foot doctor in this care. A podiatrist will first talk to the patient about any symptoms, including the severity of the pain, how long it has gone on and where it is. The doctor will ask about other health issues and family health history. After a physical examination, the doctor can begin developing a treatment plan for the patient.
Education from the foot doctor
Sometimes, a podiatrist can provide insight into foot care that other physicians cannot. The doctor can talk about the importance of watching for signs of sores and calluses. The podiatrist may also caution the patient about nerve damage and how it affects the health of the feet. This education can also include recommendations about not going barefoot or avoiding certain sports and activities.
Avoiding or quitting bad habits
Like any other type of physician, a foot doctor will advise patients to avoid tobacco and cut back on alcohol consumption. Both of these can heighten a person’s diabetes symptoms. Instead, the patient should eat a well-balanced meal and drink plenty of water.
Prescribing medication and other relief
To combat the effects of diabetes, the foot doctor may urge patients to use certain kinds of creams and lotions. Other products may increase the pain and discomfort. The podiatrist can also prescribe drugs to reduce pain and inflammation in the feet and ankles. The doctor will follow up regularly with the patient. This will help ensure that both parties are doing their part to minimize symptoms and keep the consequences of diabetes at bay.
All the right medical care
If you suffer from diabetes, do not forget to include a foot doctor in your pain- and symptom-management plan. This physician can help you maintain the function of your feet, toes and ankle. Find a podiatrist near you so you can preserve your health. Make an appointment today and share your concerns and goals with the doctor.
Get more information about Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic in Pocatello at https://www.pocatellopodiatry.com.
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