Diabetic Feet Specialist

What are diabetic feet?

Diabetic feet occur due to untreated diabetes, a group of metabolic conditions that affect your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar.

If you have diabetes and don’t take steps to keep your blood sugar in check, you’re more likely to experience sores, infections, and permanent nerve damage.

Regular checkups at Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC, can alert you to potential problems early on, ensuring you remain mobile and symptom-free.

Who is at risk of experiencing diabetic feet?

You might experience diabetic feet if you have:

• Nerve damage
• Poor circulation
• Trouble managing your blood sugar
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol

You’re also more likely to experience diabetic feet if you struggle to maintain a healthy weight.

What causes diabetic feet?

If your blood sugar levels remain high for an extended period, it causes permanent nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation. If the nerves in your feet don’t work as they should, you might cut yourself or develop a blister and not realize it. If the cut or blister gets infected, an ulcer can form, increasing the risk of more severe problems.

Diabetes also increases your risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAD affects blood flow to your feet, slowing down your body’s natural healing process.

How are diabetic feet diagnosed?

At Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC, Dr. Oexeman diagnoses diabetic feet during an in-office visit.

First, she reviews your medical records and asks about your diabetes, including how long you’ve had it and the steps you take to keep your blood sugar in check. Then, she examines your toes, feet, and legs, looking for slow-healing wounds or signs of infection. Dr. Oexeman also runs several tests to check for nerve damage.

If an exam doesn’t provide enough insight into your condition, Dr. Oexeman might also order blood work or X-rays. These tests help Dr. Oexeman determine the severity of your diabetes and the best type of treatment.

How are diabetic feet treated?

Treatment of diabetic feet depends on several factors, including your age, the severity of your diabetes, and the symptoms you’re experiencing. Whenever possible, Dr. Oexeman recommends conservative measures, like:

• Checking your feet daily for blisters, cuts, or cracked skin
• Keeping your toenails trimmed and filed
• Wearing shoes and socks at all times to protect your feet
• Washing your feet daily
• Wearing compression stockings
• Maintaining healthy blood sugar

Dr. Oexeman also provides more specialized care, like diabetic limb salvage. She has significant training and expertise in various types of surgery, including external fixation, muscle flaps for chronic wounds, and reconstructive foot and ankle surgery.

If you’re concerned about having diabetic feet, make an appointment at Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC, by calling the office or booking online today.