People who have been diagnosed with Diabetes are at greater risk for infection from an injury to the foot, even if that injury is minor, such as a scrape.
Boston Common Podiatry’s Jordana Szpiro, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S., a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and Shannon Thompson, D.P.M. offer the following tips to people affected by diabetes:
-Inspect feet and between the toes daily, checking for: dry or cracking skin, corns and calluses, any unusual lesions, discolored or thick nails. Those with Type I or Type II Diabetes who may be experiencing any of these symptoms are at risk for infection and should see a primary care physician or podiatrist immediately for treatment.
-Check shoes and socks for foreign objects before putting them on. A minor scrape incurred by a pebble in the shoe is a major health concern for people with diabetes as there is a risk of infection. A person with diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage) is at even greater risk for infection from a scrape because s/he would not be able to feel they have an injury.
-Check the temperature of soaking or bath water with the hands first to avoid scalding. A minor burn can turn into an open wound and become infected.
-Wear white socks only because the dyes in colored socks can be toxic if absorbed into open wounds and cause infection.
-Have shoes sized and fit by a professional. Shoes that are too large will allow the foot to move within the shoe and chafe the skin. Shoes that are too small can pinch the feet and cause blisters, which may become infected.
-Be aware of any changes in sensation or circulation. Numbness or tingling in the feet may be a sign of neuropathy due to elevated glucose levels over a significant period of time.
– People with diabetes should not cut their own toenails. Again, the risk of cutting nails incorrectly (resulting in ingrown toenails), cutting nails too short, or of nicking the skin is significant. Have a podiatrist do it.
If there is a sign that there is something wrong, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist immediately.
Boston Common Podiatry treats a large number of senior and Medicare patients. The setting is a private; there is no wait time and no referral needed.
For more information, visit the website at www.BostonCommonPodiatry.com or contact the office at 617-262-2266.
About Boston Common Podiatry
Boston Common Podiatry specializes in the treatment of foot conditions including pain, fractures and sports-related injuries; complicated foot conditions caused by diabetes, arthritis and cardiovascular disease; pediatric podiatry, molded orthotics and foot fillers. From athletes and dancers to marathon runners and high-heeled fashionistas to seniors and children, the renowned Boston Common Podiatry cares for patients from the greater Boston and Cape Cod areas.
The practice’s physicians are affiliated with Partner’s Healthcare, Mt. Auburn Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Cambridge Health Alliance, and Lawrence Memorial Hospital in Medford. The office is handicapped accessible and they offer convenient, on-site x-ray services.
Boston Common Podiatry is one of the few practices in the area offering two of the newest, most advanced treatments: Keryflex, which is a new and innovative solution to fungal or dystrophic nails and the innovative FDA-cleared GenesisPlus laser in the treatment of fungal nails. The GenesisPlus laser provides a fast, highly effective solution, with minimal discomfort for warts, scars and Onychomycosis, which is a fungal infection that causes toenails to thicken, discolor and split. It is also ideal for skin rejuvenation and the treatment of spider veins.
Boston Common Podiatry is located at 264 Beacon Street, Second Floor, Boston, MA. For more information contact 617-262-2266 or visit bostoncommonpodiatry.com.
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