Diabetic Feet Specialist

Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico

Podiatrists & Foot and Ankle Surgeons located in Albuquerque, NM, Rio Rancho, NM, South Valley, NM, Edgewood, NM & Grants, NM

Having diabetes puts you at risk for major foot issues, including ulcers. More than 50% of ulcers grow infected, potentially leaving you vulnerable to limb loss. Although these numbers are scary, there’s also positive news: Seeing a podiatric physician regularly can reduce your amputation risk by an incredible 85%. The board-certified experts at Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico work hard to keep diabetic feet healthy. The practice has five offices in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, South Valley, Edgewood, and Grants, New Mexico. Call the office nearest you or book an appointment online today.

Diabetic Feet Q & A

How can diabetes harm my feet?

With diabetes, you have high blood sugar, which affects you in several serious ways.

Nerve damage

Nerve damage reduces your foot sensation, so you might not know about a foot injury until it gets quite bad.

Reduced blood flow

Diabetes diminishes blood flow to your limbs, making it difficult to heal when you have a wound.

Poor immune response

High blood sugar triggers your body to release harmful molecules that inhibit your immune response. This leaves you more vulnerable to wound infection.

When you combine these factors, it’s easy to see how harmful diabetes can be to your feet.

How can I take care of my feet as a diabetic?

See your medical doctor or diabetes specialist on a regular basis to control your blood sugar using diet, medication, insulin injections, an insulin pump, or other means appropriate for you.

Look after your feet carefully at home, including daily washing followed by a careful foot check. Moisturize your feet every day, but skip the between-toe area since it can breed fungus. Trim your toenails straight across, using sanitized clippers.

You can also improve circulation by wearing special diabetic socks, avoiding smoking, and wiggling your toes regularly. Avoid crossing your legs or sitting in the same position for long periods, as it inhibits circulation. Also, avoid walking barefoot, as it increases the chance of injury.

Regular appointments with your podiatrist are the cornerstone of your diabetic foot care. Your podiatrist customizes your care.

They recommend an ideal exam frequency for you, and you may need wound care if you develop cuts, punctures, blisters, or other types of wounds. If you have ingrown toenails, foot fungus, or foot deformities like bunions, your podiatrist provides effective treatment right away.

Do I need diabetic shoes?

Custom diabetic shoes can be extremely helpful in taking care of your feet. They have more room in the heel, a deeper toe box, soft, nonconstricting materials, and lightweight soles. Custom inserts can fit into your diabetic shoes for added stability and support.

Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico is the only podiatry group in the state to have an accredited durable medical equipment (DME) lab and an on-site pedorthist who fits you with customized shoes and inserts to protect your feet. Medicare covers the cost of diabetic shoes once a year.

Get diabetic foot care from New Mexico’s best podiatrists by calling Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico or by booking an appointment online.