Why Podiatry Is Essential For Diabetic Patients

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Diabetes is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. One of the most important aspects of diabetes care is foot health. Foot problems can be serious for people with diabetes, as they may not feel pain or other symptoms due to nerve damage. That's where podiatry comes in — it's a branch of medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating foot and ankle problems. If you have diabetes but haven't been to a podiatry clinic in the recent past, then here are a few reasons why you should take this service a little more seriously than you currently do.

Understanding Diabetic Foot Problems

Diabetes can lead to a variety of foot problems, including nerve damage (neuropathy), poor circulation, infections, ulcers, and even amputations. Neuropathy can cause a loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult for patients to detect injuries or infections. Poor circulation can slow down the healing process, and infections can spread quickly due to the compromised immune system. Ulcers can form when injuries go unnoticed and untreated, and they can become infected if not properly managed. Amputations may be necessary if the infection is severe and cannot be controlled. All of these might seem rare or unusual but as diabetes progresses, they are more and more of your reality. 

The Role Of Podiatrists In Diabetic Management

Podiatrists play a critical role in diabetes management because they work closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure that diabetic patients receive comprehensive care. They can provide referrals to other specialists, such as endocrinologists and vascular surgeons, and they can coordinate care with other healthcare providers to ensure that diabetic patients receive the care they need to manage their condition. They do not operate in a vacuum, they are just one part of your diabetic care plan, albeit one that many people underestimate the importance of.

Treatment Options For Diabetic Foot Problems

Podiatrists use a variety of treatment options to manage diabetic foot problems, including medications, wound care, and surgical procedures. Medications can help manage symptoms and prevent infections, while wound care can help heal ulcers and prevent them from getting worse. In some cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to remove infected tissue or repair damaged nerves. Your podiatry clinic will always make sure you are well aware of what is happening so there is no confusion in your treatment and you know how to take care of yourself in-between visits. 

For more information on podiatry, contact a company like Beenleigh Podiatry Centre.

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13 March 2023

How a Podiatrist Can Help With Running Injuries

Hi, my name is Steve and I’m a keen runner. I’ve been running for fun for years. I love the buzz I get from a long run and the fact that my hobby helps keeps me fit. Last year, I started to experience problems with my feet and ankles. It started with just a few twinges and soreness but ended up getting so bad that I couldn’t run to my usual schedule any longer. I couldn’t work out what was going wrong, so a friend recommended I see a podiatrist. I was a bit sceptical at first; however, my podiatrist immediately identified some issues with my running gait and shoes that were causing my problems. I started this blog to pass on some of the advice I got for any other runners who are suddenly suffering from unexplained discomfort. Hope it helps keep you on the road!