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Part of any diabetic's long-term care practices should include regular visits with a podiatrist. People often think of diabetes as just impacting one's ability to process sugar, but it actually affects many different parts of the body, including the feet. Below are a few ways a podiatrist will help by providing long-term care to a diabetic patient.

3 Ways Podiatrists Serve Diabetics

1. Diagnose Nerve Damage

One of the biggest threats diabetes poses to the feet is peripheral neuropathy or nerve damage. Diabetes compromises the nervous system's capacity to efficiently carry messages between the brain and the rest of the body, and this results in a loss of sensation in the feet and, to a lesser extent, the hands. A podiatrist can diagnose peripheral neuropathy by gauging the foot's response to stimuli, and they will prescribe medications as necessary and keep tabs on how the condition changes over time.

2. Treat Poor Circulation

long-term careAnother common ailment among diabetics is poor circulation. This often produces pain, cramping, or burning in the feet. By making podiatrist visits a part of your long-term care regimen, you can explore a variety of ways to treat this issue. Remedies that may provide relief include medications, over-the-counter creams, cardiovascular exercise, and compression garments that encourage blood flow.

3. Identify Skin Problems

Since the skin is the body's largest organ, it too can feel the effects of diabetes. With reduced sensation in the feet comes a higher likelihood of developing problems with the skin in that area. Since you may not have feeling in your feet or toes, cuts or scrapes can go unnoticed and become serious if left untreated. Other skin conditions like callouses, athlete's foot, bunions, corns, blisters, and fungal infections can also go unnoticed and untreated. A podiatrist will stay on top of the health of your feet, inside and out.

 

Seeing a podiatrist regularly is a smart idea for anyone of any age who has been diagnosed with diabetes. If you or someone you love is an older individual who needs more regular care or skilled nursing support, trust Mount Washington Care Center. For over 30 years, they have been offering the Cincinnati area long-term care solutions, including rehabilitation, hospice services, and round-the-clock nursing. To learn more, call them today at (513) 231-4561, visit their website, or send them a message on Facebook.

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