Your feet need special care and attention if you have diabetes. Dr. Ben Olsen, Dr. Ross Bartley, and Dr. Russell Grimes of Pivotal Foot And Ankle Surgeons provide diabetic foot care in St. Joseph, Kansas City, and Independence, MO, to help your feet stay in great shape.

Why Are Diabetic Feet Different?

Diabetic feet are one of the complications of diabetes. Over time, people with diabetes start feeling numbness in their feet because of poor blood flow. Nerve damage is the main reason for this. You also won't be able to feel your feet like before, which leaves you prone to accidents.

Why Is Diabetic Foot Care Important?

Taking care of your feet if you have diabetes is very important to prevent ordinary problems from becoming serious complications. Keep your feet clean and dry. Poor circulation caused by diabetes reduces the blood flow which your body needs to fight infection. This can make it very difficult for wounds to properly heal. 

Inspect your feet daily. This is important because nerve damage, or neuropathy, often prevents diabetic patients from feeling the pain from an injury or sore, and untreated sores may become infected and develop into diabetic wounds, which can be serious. People With diabetes should have their feet examined by a podiatrist at least once a year to check blood flow and to make sure that there are no issues. 

You must wash your feet with warm water and soap at least once a day. Don't forget to also clean between your toes and dry them.

Never go barefoot, even indoors, as this could lead to an injury. Make sure to always wear shoes that fit well.

For more information on diabetic foot care in St. Joseph, Kansas City, and Independence, MO, schedule an appointment with Dr. Olsen, Dr. Bartley, and Dr. Grimes of Pivotal Foot And Ankle Surgeons by calling (816) 364-2338 today.