Thursday, February 21, 2013

Dealing With Diabetic Neuropathy

It is estimated that around 15.7 million people in the U.S have diabetes. This is a staggering number making it that much more important to provide the necessary education about staying safe and healthy.

Feet are not usually something most people pay any attention to. That is, unless they are in pain, injured or you have diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy is a major complication of having diabetes and results in feet needing to be monitored closely.

Why do you need to be so careful with diabetic neuropathy? 

Neuropathy causes a loss of feeling in your feet. Nerves become damaged and impair your ability to feel heat, cold or pain. This means you may not feel the heat of sand or a sidewalk and burn your feet or sustain a blister from your shoes and not even realize it. A small cut from stepping on a rock while barefoot can go completely unnoticed due to neuropathy.

There is a lack of good circulation in your feet when you have diabetes so any of the injuries mentioned above can turn into serious problems. Wounds take longer to heal and even minor injuries can turn into ulcers. A lack of diligent foot care or leaving these types of injuries could ultimately lead to amputation.

It may sound alarming but Dr. Tejas Pandya, foot specialist in Troy and Clifton Park, NY treats patients with diabetes on a regular basis dealing with the effects of neuropathy. It is imperative if you have diabetes, to follow good foot care habits and make an appointment as soon as you notice anything on your feet. Contact our podiatric office today if you need help or treatment. Call (518) 273-0053 or visit www.capitaldistrictpodiatry.com.
Enhanced by Zemanta

1 comment: