What Is Diabetes and How Does It Affect My Feet?

Diabetes is the inability to manufacture or properly use insulin, and it impairs the body's ability to convert sugars, starches, and other foods into energy. The long-term effects of elevated blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can lead to serious damage to the heart, eyes, kidney, nerves, and feet. Diabetes affects the lives of nearly 26 million people in the United States and nearly seven million don't even known they have the disease yet.
While there is no cure for diabetes, there is hope. With proper diet, exercise, medical care, and careful management at home, a person with diabetes can avoid the most serious complications and enjoy a full and active life. Today's podiatrist plays a key role in helping patients manage diabetes successfully and avoid foot-related complications.
Your feet are particularly susceptible to the affects of diabetes and seeing a podiatrist regularly is key in maintaining your health and keeping your lower limbs. If you've been diagnosed with diabetes or think you may have diabetes, you will notice the following warning signs:

• Skin color changes
• Swelling of the foot or ankle
• Numbness in the feet or toes
• Pain in the legs
• Open sores on the feet that are slow to heal
• Ingrown and fungal toenails
• Bleeding corns and calluses
• Dry cracks in the skin, especially around the heel

Richard E. Ehle, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers

Diabetic Foot Doctor in Bristol CT

Foot Doctor in Bristol CT

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