Diabetic Foot Care
At Apple Healthcare, we understand the critical importance of providing specialized diabetic foot care in Knoxville. Our dedicated podiatrist offers comprehensive diabetic foot care services designed to prevent and manage complications, ensuring optimal foot health for our diabetic patients.
How Diabetes Impacts Your Feet
Diabetes can significantly impact your foot health due to its effects on blood circulation and nerve function. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to decreased sensation and poor blood flow in the feet. This makes it harder for sores and cuts to heal, increasing the risk of infections and complications that can be severe if not managed properly with diabetic foot care.
Symptoms Include
- Nerve Damage
- Poor Circulation
- Increased Risk of Infection
- Foot Ulcers
- Changes in Foot Shape
- Dry Skin
Common Causes
- Genetic Predisposition: A family history of diabetes can significantly increase the risk of developing the condition.
- Obesity: Excessive body weight, especially around the abdomen, is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
- Physical Inactivity: Lack of exercise contributes to obesity and can lead to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes.
- Poor Diet: High intake of processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Age: The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases with age, particularly after 45 years.
- Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, such as African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans, have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Gestational Diabetes: Women who develop diabetes during pregnancy may have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life
Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Care in Knoxville
Diabetic foot care involves a range of preventive and treatment practices aimed at maintaining healthy feet and identifying issues early to prevent complications. Diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and affect blood flow to the feet, making it harder to heal injuries and fight infection. Our targeted care is crucial in preventing serious complications including ulcers and infections.
Treatment methods may include:
- Regular foot examinations and neuropathy screening
- Treatment of foot ulcers and infections
- Surgical interventions when necessary
- Custom orthotics and shoe advice
- Patient education on foot care and diabetes management
At Apple Healthcare, our goal is to help you live an active life with confidence and strength. If diabetes is impacting the health of your feet, reach out to us at Apple Healthcare.
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