“Foot health is often overlooked, but for individuals living with diabetes, it can mean the difference between prevention and serious complications,” said Sarah Asmus, Director of Specialty Clinic and Surgery at Audubon County Memorial Hospital and Clinics (ACMH).
At ACMH, podiatrist Dr. Eric Jensen, DPM, encourages his patients with diabetes to carefully monitor their feet every day. With over 25 years of experience in podiatric surgery, Dr. Jensen specializes in treating all disorders of the foot and ankle, including diabetic foot care.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately half of all people with diabetes have some form of nerve damage, most often affecting the feet and legs. This nerve damage can lead to numbness, tingling, or pain, and may reduce a person’s ability to feel injuries or temperature changes. The CDC warns that, “If you do not feel pain in your feet, you may not notice a cut, blister, sore, or other problem. Small problems can become larger, more serious problems if they are not treated early.”
Poor circulation and nerve damage can increase the risk of developing foot ulcers that may become infected and heal slowly. “Checking your fee every day can help you catch problems early and receive treatment before complications occur,” Asmus added. “Early intervention greatly reduces your risk of serious issues. Anyone with diabetes can develop nerve damage, but certain factors increase risk-including poorly managed blood sugar, being overweight, over age 40, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking.”
Tips for Diabetic Foot Care
- Check your feet daily for sores, cuts, blisters, corns, or redness.
- Contact your doctor if you notice any problems.
- Wash your feet thoroughly each day and dry them completely, especially between your toes.
- Apply moisturizer to your feet, but avoid the spaces between toes.
- Trim toenails straight across and smooth edges with an emery board.
- Wear moisture-wicking socks and shoes that fit well.
- Inspect shoes before wearing to ensure there are no sharp objects or rough areas.
Dr. Eric Jensen can assist with all your podiatry needs, including diabetic foot care. To schedule an appointment, contact the ACMH Outpatient Specialty Clinic at (712) 563-5304.
If you believe you may be at risk for diabetes, call and make an appointment with your primary care provider at Audubon Family Health Care (712) 563-4611 or Exira Medical Clinic (712) 268-5348.
