Medically Reviewed by:Scientific Advisory Board

Diabetes can have significant, adverse effects on feet, requiring special care and attention. That's where a diabetic foot doctor, also called a podiatrist, comes in.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. They're a critical partner in maintaining your foot health, especially if you're managing diabetes. Between nerve damage that can lessen sensation (neuropathy) to decreased circulation leading to slower wound healing, diabetes brings added complexity to foot care that general practitioners might not be equipped to handle.

We understand that navigating your health care options can feel overwhelming, particularly when it comes to conditions as potentially complex and severe as diabetes. By helping you understand what a diabetic foot doctor does, how they can assist you, and when you should seek their help, we aim to ease some of your concerns and empower your healthcare decisions.

Understanding the Role of a Diabetic Foot Doctor

Getting a grip on the importance of a diabetic foot doctor might initially seem overwhelming. We're here to tell you, it's not as complicated as it sounds.

So, who exactly are diabetic foot doctors? They're better known by their professional title, podiatrists. These medical professionals specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to our feet and lower legs. If you're living with diabetes, you'll discover that a podiatrist plays a vital role in your healthcare team.

Why's that, you might ask? Two key reasons - prevention and treatment. Diabetes makes you more vulnerable to foot problems due to poor circulation and nerve damage (neuropathy).

When we focus on prevention, regular check-ups with a podiatrist can help detect any issues early. These may involve:

• Foot deformities
• Skin infections
• Ingrown toenails

If left untreated, these can lead to severe complications including foot ulcers or even amputation. Proactively managing these issues is crucial to ensure optimal foot health.

To grasp the importance of a podiatrist in the treatment phase, let's look at some data. On experiencing foot issues, getting help within 24-48 hours can lower the amputation risk by as much as 85%.

This is where a trained podiatrist comes into play. They are competent at handling diabetic feet emergencies swiftly and reducing your risk.

So, if proper foot care can be the difference between walking and the unthinkable, where will you turn for help managing your diabetic feet? The answer becomes clear – an experienced diabetic foot doctor.

When Should You Consult a Diabetic Foot Doctor?

Sooner or later, the question pops up for many, "When should we consult a diabetic foot doctor?" The answer can't be the same for everyone, as each of us may face unique conditions or symptoms. However, it's vital that we consider meeting with a diabetic foot doctor, or a podiatrist, when we encounter certain 'red flags' that signal potential issues.

Lets start with a simple one: unhealed sores. If we notice that a wound or sore on our feet doesn't seem to be healing, it's time to contact a professional. An unhealed sore could lead to more severe complications for people with diabetes, such as infection or ulcers.

Foot pain is a clear sign too. It's not normal to constantly feel pain in our feet. This might indicate issues like neuropathy, a nerve disease commonly seen in diabetic patients, or other underlying foot trouble. A diabetic foot doctor can help determine the cause of the pain and provide a suitable treatment plan.

Regular changes in foot colour or foot temperature changes also warrant a visit to a foot doctor. These changes could hint towards circulatory issues linked to diabetes, which, if unchecked, can lead to serious health problems.

Upon observations of corns, calluses, or bunions, we ought to make an appointment with a foot doctor. These are thick, hard spots that occur due to excessive pressure on the feet. Left untreated, such conditions can turn into open sores or ulcers.

Let's not disregard persistent itching and dryness, swollen feet, and ingrown toenails either. These are troublesome symptoms that should be shown to a diabetic foot doctor without delay.

Highlighted below are the key signs to be on a lookout for:

• Unhealed sores
• Persistent foot pain
• Changes in foot color and temperature
• Corns, calluses, or bunions
• Persistent itching and dryness
• Swollen feet
• Ingrown toenails

We can't overstress the importance of regular foot check-ups, especially when we're living with diabetes. Regular foot exams can help prevent the onset of severe foot conditions, catch problems early on, and provide the right course of treatment. It's empowering to know when to seek help and take control of our health. After all, our wellbeing is our responsibility, and prevention is always better than a cure.

And remember, if you ever find yourself asking, "When should I see a diabetic foot doctor?", chances are, it's time to schedule that appointment.

Qualities to Look for in a Diabetic Foot Doctor

A highly skilled diabetic foot doctor, or podiatrist, is an absolute must-have in the healthcare team of anyone managing diabetes. They're critical allies in the fight against potential foot problems that could arise from this condition. But what should you be looking for in a good diabetic foot healthcare professional? Here's our guide.

Firstly, a good podiatrist should have substantial expertise in diabetic foot management. We're talking up-to-date knowledge on the latest treatments, awareness of the most recent research, and comprehensive experience in treating diabetic foot complications. They should also have a track record of successful treatments.

Hands down, communication skills are essential. An excellent diabetic foot doctor doesn't only possess vast medical knowledge - they're also able to explain complex things in an understandable way. They should be able to work with other members of your healthcare team, such as endocrinologists and dieticians, to create a holistic approach to your health.

Critical is their ability to lend emotional support. Facing a chronic disease is never easy; empathy and encouragement play a crucial role in your journey. Your diabetic foot doctor should be patient, understanding and supportive.

We can't stress this enough: a keen eye for detail is a must! They need to catch even the tiniest sign of foot trouble, this can make all the difference in preventing severe complications.

Finally, they must stay current. The field of healthcare is continuously evolving - and diabetic foot care is no different. Your foot doctor should participate in ongoing education to stay tuned to the latest developments.

Prioritizing Your Feet Health

Foot health should always be a priority, especially if you're somebody who is dealing with diabetes. When we don't proactively attend to our feet, that's where issues tend to arise. However, by maintaining a regular visit to a diabetes foot doctor or podiatrist, you can pinpoint issues before they complicate.

We can't stress enough the importance of regular foot check-ups. When overlooked, minor foot problems could lead to severe complications like ulcers, infections, and even amputations. When it comes to diabetic foot care, it's always better to err on the side of caution.

There are a couple of preventive measures that are crucial for diabetic foot care:

• Wash and dry your feet daily: Keeping your feet clean helps to prevent infections.
• Check for cuts, sores, or changes: It's essential to examine your feet every day. This way, you aren't surprised by unnoticed injuries or issues.
• Moisturize your feet: Dry skin could lead to cracks and infections. Always remember to moisturize, but avoid putting lotion between your toes.
• Wear padded shoes: This helps to keep the pressure-off necessary areas of your feet.
• Regularly visit a podiatrist: This will aid in maintaining good foot health, as they can recognize and treat any issues that may come up.

Taking care of your feet isn't just a crucial part of managing diabetes— it's a crucial part of maintaining your overall health. As we've outlined, it's not too hard: just a matter of regular checks, hygiene, and using the right products. To sum up, let's always prioritize preventative care and keep our feet at their healthiest!

References, Studies and Resources: 

https://diabetes.org/healthy-living/seniors/foot-care-tips

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Podiatry

More About Circufiber.com and Healthcare disclaimer:

Always consult your physician before beginning any program. This general information is not intended to diagnose any medical condition or to replace your healthcare professional. If you experience any pain or difficulty, stop and consult your healthcare provider. Circufiber.com socks are clinically proven to improve micro-circulation in feet and lower extremities in people with Diabetes. 

More Author Information:

Dr. Capozzi is a board-certified foot surgeon through the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He is a Diplomate of the American Academy of Wound Management and Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He completed a three-year residency program in Foot and Ankle Reconstructive Surgery at St. Francis Hospital & Medical Center in Hartford, CT in 2010. Dr. Capozzi is a board-certified Wound Specialist® granted by the American Academy of Wound Management. He is also board-certified in Foot Surgery through the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery.