Diabetic Foot Care

Podiatrists, Diabetic Foot Specialists in Valley Stream NY

Valley Stream Podiatry speaks with ZP TV about diabetic foot care.

DIABETIC FOOT HEALTH

Over 29 million people in the United States have diabetes. Foot care for diabetics is a primary concern, since diabetes can cause numbness and lack of blood flow to the legs and feet. Cuts and sores can go unnoticed, leading to infections. For this reason, those who have diabetes need to pay extra attention to their feet in order to remain healthy.

How do I take care of my feet if I am a diabetic?

  • Wash and dry your feet on a daily basis - Don’t soak your feet because that will dry them out, but wash them gently in warm water using mild soap. Lotion the bottom of your feet to prevent them from cracking and use talcum powder between your toes to prevent infections.

  • Keep your feet covered at all times - Because people with diabetes cannot necessarily feel it if they step on something sharp, it is important to always wear shoes and socks. Make sure your shoes are empty- look in them to ensure that there are no foreign objects that could possibly cut you. Prevent blisters and open sores by avoiding high heels and pointy toes shoes, and by wearing socks or nylons with your shoes.

  • Trim your toenails regularly - If you can see your feet and reach them comfortably, trim your toenails. However, if you cannot reach your feet, the toenails are thick or yellowed or you cannot feel your feet, have your doctor cut your toenails for you.

  • Keep the blood flowing to your feet- Don’t wear shoes or socks that are too tight and cut off circulation to your legs and feet. Keep your feet elevated when sitting down and do not cross your legs for long periods of time.

  • Check your feet every day - Examine your feet every day for cuts or sores, infected toenails or swelling. If you cannot see your feet, use a mirror, or ask a family member/ caregiver to help you out.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes it is essential that you contact us and have a Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Exam.  

Diabetic Shoe Program

Fitting and dispensing of Therapeutic Diabetic Shoes

Please ask our Valley Stream Podiatry Team about therapeutic (prescription) footwear, which is a covered benefit for diabetic patients in many insurance plans. Proper shoes are needed to help reduce the possibility of painful foot sores and potentially life threatening wounds.

 
 
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WOUND CARE - FOOT ULCERS

Having an open wound, increases the chances of infection. If you have a non healing wound on your lower extremity, it is essential that you act to get it healed as quickly as possible to prevent infection and further complications. If you have diabetes, you are especially at risk for complications. The sooner a wound is treated the greater the patient's chances are of healing.

When you first come to our office, we will use the latest technology to perform a comprehensive neurologic, vascular and orthopedic exam. Once the wounds are healed,  patients are regularly followed up to help avoid future problems. So, if you have a non-healing wound on your foot, ankle or leg especially if you're diabetic, we strongly recommend that you schedule an appointment to see us as soon as possible.