From counting carbs to checking glucose levels to maintaining a healthy A1C, managing diabetes is a delicate balancing act with much at stake, especially when it comes to your feet. Though these chronic conditions can put them at risk for numerous problems, diligent daily care and a strong partnership with your podiatrist could help you stay a step ahead of many common complications.
At Alpine Foot & Ankle Clinic, board-certified podiatrist Dr. Gregg Neibauer provides comprehensive and conscientious diabetic foot care that emphasizes non- or minimally invasive treatments and advanced therapies whenever possible. Located in Missoula, our practice serves patients throughout Montana and northern Idaho, offering regular visits, routine services, amputation prevention, and same-day appointments for injuries and other urgent concerns.
Don’t let diabetes slow you down—partner with our specialist to protect your feet, maintain mobility, and enjoy life out under the Big Sky.
Diabetes and Your Feet
Diabetes disrupts the body’s ability to convert food into energy. During digestion, carbohydrates break down into a sugar called glucose. Insulin typically directs this sugar to the appropriate cells for efficient use. However, people with diabetes don’t produce enough (or often any) of this life-sustaining hormone, or their body’s receptors cannot utilize it properly. Without medical intervention, glucose builds up in the bloodstream instead of fueling your cells and giving your body energy.
Elevated blood sugar levels can cause lasting damage, leading to complications like poor circulation and peripheral nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) over time. These issues can delay healing and result in sensory changes, making it harder to detect foot wounds and lengthening their recovery time. In turn, this increases the risk of severe complications, including infection, gangrene, and even amputation.
Best Practices for Diabetic Foot Care
Dr. Neibauer understands that managing a chronic condition like diabetes can be challenging. That's why he works to make it easy for patients with this demanding illness to care for their feet. Alpine Foot & Ankle Clinic's best practices for basic diabetic foot care include the following:
- Establish a healthy hygiene routine. Wash your feet daily in warm, soapy water to remove dirt and bacteria. After washing, pat them dry gently with a soft, clean towel, ensuring you thoroughly dry between your toes. This helps prevent fungal infections that can thrive in moist environments.
- Keep your feet comfortable. Once your feet are clean and dry, apply a high-quality moisturizer to keep the skin soft and supple. However, it is important to avoid moisturizing between your toes, as excess moisture in these areas can increase your risk of infection. Additionally, wear moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry, and choose well-fitting shoes that provide adequate cushioning and support to avoid pressure sores and blisters.
- Inspect your feet every day. Spend a few minutes each day examining your feet, looking for any changes in appearance or sensation. Check for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or any other abnormalities. If you have trouble seeing all parts of your feet, use a hand mirror or ask someone to help you. Detecting issues early can prevent them from becoming serious problems.
- Visit your podiatrist regularly. Regular visits to your podiatrist are essential for maintaining foot health. The CDC recommends annual foot exams for people with diabetes, but if you have uncontrolled blood glucose or blood pressure, more frequent visits—every three to six months—are advisable.
- Seek prompt care for problems. Diabetes can cause even minor foot issues, such as cracked heels or ingrown toenails, to escalate quickly. Seek prompt care for any foot problems to prevent complications. At Alpine Foot & Ankle Clinic, we offer routine services and care for chronic conditions and acute injuries, with availability for same-day or next-day appointments.
Being diligent, thorough, and consistent with your routine, along with knowing when to seek professional care, are key to keeping your feet happy and healthy despite diabetes.