Managing Diabetes from the Ground Up: Why Your Feet Deserve Attention
Diabetes and Foot Care: What You Need to Know
Diabetes is a condition that affects much more than blood sugar. Over time, it can quietly impact multiple systems in the body—especially the feet. For those living with diabetes, foot care is not just important; it's essential.
Many diabetic foot complications begin subtly. A small cut, blister, or pressure point can escalate quickly due to reduced sensation and poor circulation. Without timely care, these issues can turn into serious wounds or infections.
The good news? Most complications are preventable with routine monitoring, proper footwear, and expert podiatric care.
The ABCs of Diabetes + D for Daily Foot Health
A great way to manage your diabetes is by understanding the ABCs of care:
A = A1C: This blood test reflects your average blood sugar over a few months. Monitoring it regularly helps you understand how well your diabetes is controlled and prevents long-term complications.
B = Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can put extra stress on your heart and kidneys. Keeping it in check also supports overall vascular health, including blood flow to your feet.
C = Cholesterol: Balanced cholesterol levels reduce your risk of heart disease and support proper circulation—an essential factor in healing and preventing foot injuries.
To that, we add D = Daily Foot Health. Examining your feet daily for cuts, color changes, swelling, or sores can be the first step in preventing bigger problems. Pair this with regular visits to Valley Stream Podiatry, and you're taking powerful action to protect your long-term health.
Why Feet Are Vulnerable
Diabetes can cause nerve damage, known as peripheral neuropathy, which dulls your ability to feel pain, temperature, or injuries. Without these warning signs, small issues can go unnoticed and progress into wounds or infections. Add reduced circulation into the mix, and healing becomes even more difficult.
This is why people with diabetes are more prone to foot ulcers, thickened nails, calluses, and serious infections. Fortunately, early detection and specialized care from a podiatrist can help keep your feet safe, functional, and pain-free.
Expert Diabetic Foot Care at Valley Stream Podiatry
At Valley Stream Podiatry, we offer comprehensive diabetic foot evaluations tailored to your needs. Our team—Dr. Andrew Shapiro, Dr. Michael Barkin, and Dr. Sajni Shah—focuses on preventive care, custom orthotics, advanced wound treatment, and education to help you stay one step ahead of potential issues.
Our goal is simple: to help you walk confidently and live fully. Whether you need regular monitoring or advanced care for a foot issue, we’re here to support every step of your journey.
Don’t Wait—Protect Your Feet Today
Diabetes doesn't have to slow you down, but it does require you to stay vigilant. Make your feet a priority. Schedule a diabetic foot checkup at Valley Stream Podiatry in Long Island today. Call (516) 825-3860 or book an appointment online. Early care is the best care—especially when it comes to your feet.