Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetic Foot Care Services in Fairport and Rochester

Come see Dr. DiPrima if you need help with bunions, calluses, or ingrown toenails. He’s got over 40 years of experience and is a licensed podiatrist in the Fairport area. If you have sports injuries or need diabetic foot care, Dr. DiPrima can help with that as well. Give us a call at 585-249-0020 to schedule your free consultation today. We look forward to meeting you.

Care of the Diabetic Foot

Diabetic foot problems are a major health concern and are a common cause of hospitalization. The leading cause of non-traumatic amputation in the United States is from diabetes.

Five-year mortality rates after new-onset diabetic ulceration have been reported be-tween 43% and 55% and up to 74% for patients with lower-extremity amputation. These rates are higher than those for several types of cancer, including prostate, breast, colon, and Hodgkin’s disease. In other words, your chance of dying after a diabetic ulcer is higher than if you developed several of these cancers. *

Most foot problems that people with diabetes face arise from two serious complications of the disease: nerve damage and poor circulation. The lack of feeling and poor blood flow can allow a small blister to progress to a serious infection in a matter of days. Chronic nerve damage (neuropathy) can cause dry and cracked skin, which provides an opportunity for bacteria to enter and cause infection.

The consequences can range from hospitalization for antibiotics to amputation of a toe or foot. For people with diabetes, careful, daily inspection of the feet is essential to overall health and the prevention of damaging foot problems.

General Care of the Diabetic Foot

Never walk barefoot. The nerve damage decreases sensation, so you may not notice that little pebbles or objects have gotten stuck in your foot. This can lead to a massive infection. Always wearing shoes or slippers reduces this risk.

Wash your feet every day with mild soap and warm water. Test the water temperature with your hand first. Do not soak your feet. When drying them, pat each foot with a towel rather than rubbing vigorously. Be careful drying between your toes.

Use lotion to keep the skin of your feet soft and moist. This prevents dry skin cracks and decreases the risk of infection. Do not put lotion between the toes.

Trim your toenails straight across. Avoid cutting the corners. Use a nail file or emery board. If you find an ingrown toenail, see your Doctor. Good medical care is important in preventing infections.

Do not use antiseptic solutions, drugstore medications, heating pads, or sharp instruments on your feet. Do not put your feet on radiators or in front of the fireplace.

Always keep your feet warm. Wear loose socks to bed. Do not get your feet wet in snow or rain. Wear warm socks and shoes in winter.

Do NOT smoke. Smoking damages blood vessels and decreases the ability of the body to deliver oxygen. In combination with diabetes, it significantly increases your risk of amputation — not only of the feet but can include the hands, as well.

Inspect your feet every day. Look for puncture wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, cuts, and nail problems, and call your Podiatrist immediately.

Get someone to help you, or use a mirror if you are unable to do it alone. You may not feel that damage has occurred to the skin. Inspecting for skin breakdown is crucial.