Diabetes can cause complications that affect foot health. Some of these complications are:
Untreated diabetes can damage nerves in the legs and feet. When nerves in those parts of the body are damaged, they may be unable to feel heat, cold, or trauma. This leads to infections, muscle weakening, and diabetic ulcers. If left untreated, these foot problems can be severe and threaten the safety of the limb. Podiatrists can help with wound care and preventative medicine to maintain foot health. This may save the foot from amputation.
Diabetes can reduce blood flow to your feet, which makes it more difficult for infections and cuts to heal and increases the risk of developing gangrene or ulcers. Gangrene is a type of tissue death caused by a lack of circulation. Podiatrists can prescribe antibiotic medication to help the infection, but if left untreated, gangrene can lead to amputation.
Podiatrists can help create a foot care plan that keeps your feet healthy and free from infection. If you have a cut or blister that isn’t healing, or if you have chronic foot pain, talk to a doctor right away.
Podiatrists on Sesame offer affordable new patient consultations to talk you through your foot health and treatment plans that might be right for you. Sesame uses a direct-to-patient model, which means you book directly with the doctor you want to see and pay an upfront price with no insurance needed. Foot care can help prevent serious infection or disease. Talk to a doctor today to get the care you need.