Diabetes and Foot Ulcers

If you have diabetes, it may feel like you have plenty of other health challenges to manage. Checking your blood sugar levels regularly is one of them. Staying on top of diet and exercise is another. Unfortunately, one of the common complications that can come with this condition is a diabetic foot ulcer. It is a sore or open wound on the foot.

For Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists, prevention and treatment for this condition are top priorities. We want to educate patients with diabetes about their increased risk of developing a wound. We also want to help them treat an ulcer quickly. Delayed treatment can result in an infection that can lead to severe consequences, including amputation.

Although we know the condition is more common in patients with diabetes, we won’t stop trying to reduce their risk. From lifestyle changes to regular visits, there are ways to keep your feet ulcer-free.

Here are some ways to reduce your chances of developing a wound:

Monitor your blood sugar

Whether you set a timer or have an app, it is very important to know the status of your blood sugar levels. It should also impact how you select your meals throughout the day. If blood sugar levels are consistently high, you could be in trouble.

Stop smoking

Neuropathy, or nerve damage, puts patients at risk because they cannot feel they have a wound. Poor circulation is one of the many causes of neuropathy, which puts a patient at risk of developing a wound. Did you know smoking is a habit that can only make things worse? Smoking contributes to poor circulation, among other negative health consequences.

Stay active

Regular physical activity is one of the many healthy lifestyle choices we promote. It also helps to boost circulation, which we discussed earlier. In addition, physical activity helps to lower your risk of developing diabetes — a common association with diabetic foot ulcers.

If you notice a cut or wound on your foot, don’t wait to schedule treatment. Do your best to clean the wound and protect it from pressure. We want to see you soon.

With locations in Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, we have vast experience treating issues of the ankles and feet. Our team includes Dr. Christopher M. Funk, Dr. Bradley A. Whitaker, Dr. Peter C. Merrill, and Dr. Zeno Pfau. Our doctors offer the greatest in technologically advanced methods and cutting-edge medical treatments. Please call 520-575-0800 and make an appointment.