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Diabetic Foot Care Specialist

Gentle Foot Care Clinic

Podiatrist located in Brandon, FL & Zephyrhills, FL

If you have diabetes, you’re also at a higher risk of developing foot-related health problems, including diabetic neuropathy, poor circulation, and open wounds. Regularly meeting with a podiatrist can prevent infection and keep your feet healthy and problem-free. Jairo Cruz, DPM, at Gentle Foot Care Clinic in Zephyrhills and Brandon, Florida, specializes in diabetic foot care. To make your appointment, call the office or click the online booking tool today.

Diabetic Foot Care Q & A

Why is diabetic foot care important?

Diabetes is a chronic illness that prevents your body from adequately regulating your blood sugar levels. If your blood sugar is too high for an extended period of time, it negatively affects your circulation and in turn, the health of your feet. 

This may result in diabetic neuropathy — a type of permanent nerve damage — or peripheral vascular disease, which prevents healthy blood flow. Combined, nerve damage and vascular disease increase your risk of open wounds, infections, and gangrene. 

If you have diabetes, you’re also more likely to develop less serious foot problems, including bunions, blisters, dry skin, corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, and athlete’s foot. 

If I have diabetes, what can I do to keep my feet healthy?

If you’re living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, it’s important to take preventive measures to keep your feet and toes healthy. Dr. Cruz recommends eating a healthy, well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, and taking your medications as prescribed. You should also monitor your blood sugar levels throughout the day and keep them within a healthy range. 

In addition, it’s important to physically inspect your feet. Every day, look for blisters, sores, redness, or calluses. If your feet are dry, keep them moist with lotion, but avoid putting the lotion between your toes. You should also wear closed-toed shoes or slippers, and avoid walking barefoot around your house. Simple steps like these will significantly lower your risk of encountering diabetes-related foot complications in the future. 

When should I see a podiatrist about diabetic foot care?

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important to establish a relationship with a podiatrist like Dr. Cruz. This is true even if your feet look and feel healthy. Regular checkups with a podiatrist can alert you to potential problems and prevent them from getting worse. Dr. Cruz can also work with you to develop a treatment plan that keeps you mobile and infection-free. 

Depending on the severity of your diabetes, Dr. Cruz might recommend wearing special socks or shoes with extra cushioning. If you smoke, he might also recommend a cessation plan to help improve your circulation. 

If you’re living with diabetes, don’t forget to include a trusted podiatrist in your treatment plan. To make an appointment at Gentle Foot Care Clinic, call the office nearest you or click the online booking tool to make an appointment today.

Services


Minimally Invasive Surgery

Bunions

Hammer Toes

Heel Pain

 

Ingrown Toenails

Gout

Diabetic Foot Care

Flat Foot