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Diabetic Foot Care Specialist

The Methodist Physician Group Specialists Our Services Diabetic Foot Care
The Methodist Physician Group Specialists - - Orthopedic Surgeon

The Methodist Physician Group Specialists

Orthopedic Surgeons & Spine Surgeons located in Merrillville, IN

Diabetic foot wounds are one of the most common causes of hospitalizations and surgeries for people with diabetes. To avoid foot problems caused by diabetes, visit The Methodist Physician Group Specialists in Merrillville, Indiana. The podiatric team provides high-level and effective care for diabetic foot problems so you can avoid or reduce the severity of open wounds, ulcers, and infections in your feet. To set up an appointment, call or book online today.

Diabetic Foot Care Q & A

Why is diabetic foot care important?

High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can cause problems with the circulation and nerve function in your feet and legs. This predisposes you to foot injuries, tripping, ulcers, and non-healing wounds. Even people with controlled diabetes can experience diabetic foot problems if they have diabetes for many years.

Diabetes causes a loss of sensation in your feet and slows down the healing of foot sores and ulcers, which can lead to injuries and hospitalizations if a foot wound becomes infected. Regular diabetic foot care from your physician can prevent or reduce the severity of these foot problems, potentially helping you avoid a hospital stay or complications of diabetic foot wounds, like gangrene or amputation.

How can I take care of my feet at home?

Your podiatrist can help you develop an at-home care routine that involves inspecting your feet daily and gentle care of your feet to avoid irritation, pain, and discomfort. Some at-home strategies you can follow to protect your feet include:

  • Visually inspecting your feet every day
  • Washing your feet daily in warm, not hot, water and mild soap
  • Keeping your toenails trimmed straight across
  • Inspecting your shoes for rocks or pebbles before putting them on
  • Avoiding placing your feet near hot objects, like an open fire
  • Changing your shoes and socks if they get wet

These preliminary steps can help protect the skin on your feet and avoid the development of open wounds or ulcers. You’ll also be able to notice any unusual changes to your feet right away when you make foot inspection a daily habit.

When do I need medical care for a diabetic foot problem?

The team recommends yearly foot exams for those with diabetes. These exams involve checking blood flow to your feet and sensation in your feet. It’s also best to seek treatment immediately if you experience:

  • Ingrown toenails
  • Open wounds, sores, or ulcers on your feet
  • Changes in the color of your feet, such as a blue tint to your skin
  • Foot pain
  • Loss of sensation in your foot
  • Loss of coordination when standing, walking, or climbing stairs

The team provides extensive options to care for diabetic foot issues so you can be confident that you’re receiving the right care when you need it.

If you have diabetes, schedule a foot exam by calling The Methodist Physician Group Specialists or booking online now.