Diabetic Foot Care in Stamford, CT

Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy can reduce sensation in the feet. A person may not feel a cut, blister, burn, or object inside a shoe.

Neuropathy may also cause:

• Burning pain
• Tingling
• Numbness
• Increased sensitivity
• Sharp or shooting pain
• Muscle weakness
• Balance problems

Loss of protective sensation means that an injury may continue to experience pressure before it is discovered.

Reduced Circulation

Diabetes may contribute to reduced blood flow in the legs and feet. Poor circulation can make it more difficult for wounds to heal and for the body to fight infection.

Possible signs include:

• Feet that frequently feel cold
• Changes in skin color
• Weak pulses
• Shiny or thin skin
• Reduced hair growth
• Leg or foot pain during activity
• Wounds that heal slowly

Changes in Foot Shape

Nerve and muscle changes may alter the shape of the feet and toes. Bunions, hammertoes, prominent bones, or a collapsed arch can create areas of increased pressure.

These pressure points may develop calluses, blisters, or wounds, especially when shoes do not fit properly.

Dry or Cracked Skin

Nerve damage may affect the skin’s ability to maintain normal moisture. Dry, cracked skin can create openings where bacteria may enter.

Warning Signs That Require Prompt Care

Contact a healthcare provider promptly if you notice:

• An open sore or blister
• Redness that is spreading
• Increasing swelling or warmth
• Pus, drainage, or an unpleasant odor
• Black, blue, pale, or discolored skin
• A new callus with blood underneath
• A nail growing into the skin
• A puncture wound
• A burn
• A sudden change in foot shape
• A warm and swollen foot without a clear injury
• Fever or chills with a foot wound

Do not wait for pain before seeking care. Neuropathy can make a serious problem feel mild or painless.

Professional Nail Care

Thick, curved, fungal, or difficult-to-reach toenails can be challenging to trim safely. Professional nail care may help reduce the risk of accidental cuts and ingrown nails.

Do not attempt to aggressively trim thickened nails if you have reduced sensation or circulation problems.

Corn and Callus Care

Corns and calluses indicate areas of repeated pressure. A podiatrist can safely reduce thickened skin and determine what is causing it.

Do not cut corns or calluses with a blade or use medicated removal products unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Wound Care

A diabetic foot wound requires professional evaluation. Treatment may include:

• Cleaning the wound
• Removing unhealthy tissue
• Reducing pressure on the area
• Applying appropriate dressings
• Treating infection
• Monitoring healing
• Evaluating circulation
• Coordinating additional medical care

The wound should be kept protected according to the instructions provided. Avoid applying unapproved creams, antiseptics, or home remedies.

Pressure Relief and Offloading

Reducing pressure is often essential for healing a foot ulcer. Depending on the location and severity, offloading may involve special padding, footwear, a brace, a walking boot, or another protective device.

Diabetic Shoes and Custom Orthotics

Properly fitted diabetic footwear can reduce rubbing and accommodate changes in foot shape. Custom orthotics may help redistribute pressure away from high-risk areas.

Footwear should be checked regularly because changes in the feet can affect the fit over time.

Infection Treatment

A foot infection may require medication and wound care. More serious infections may require imaging, laboratory testing, hospital treatment, or coordination with other specialists.

Treatment of Foot Deformities

Bunions, hammertoes, prominent bones, and other deformities can create repeated pressure. Treatment may include footwear changes, padding, orthotics, or surgery in selected cases.

Inspect Your Feet Every Day

Check the tops, bottoms, sides, heels, and spaces between the toes. Use a mirror or ask for assistance if you cannot see every area.

Look for:

• Cuts
• Blisters
• Redness
• Swelling
• Cracks
• Drainage
• Bruising
• Nail changes
• Corns or calluses
• Changes in skin color

Wash and Dry Carefully

Wash your feet with warm, not hot, water. Test the temperature with your hand or elbow if you have reduced sensation.

Dry gently, especially between the toes. Do not soak the feet for an extended period unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Moisturize Dry Skin

Apply moisturizer to the tops and bottoms of the feet to reduce dryness and cracking. Avoid applying lotion between the toes because excess moisture may contribute to fungal infections.

Trim Toenails Safely

Trim toenails straight across and smooth sharp edges with a file. Do not cut the corners deeply or trim the nails excessively short.

Arrange professional nail care if the nails are thick, curved, difficult to reach, or unsafe to trim.

Wear Shoes and Socks

Avoid walking barefoot, even at home. Shoes can protect the feet from sharp objects, burns, and other injuries.

Wear clean, dry socks that fit without creating tight bands or folds.

Check Your Shoes

Before putting on shoes, check inside for stones, rough seams, torn lining, or other objects. Make sure the shoes fit properly and do not rub against the toes or heels.

How often should someone with diabetes see a podiatrist?

The appropriate schedule depends on circulation, sensation, foot structure, and previous complications. Patients at higher risk may need more frequent examinations.

Why are foot wounds more serious for people with diabetes?

Neuropathy may prevent an injury from being noticed, while reduced circulation can delay healing. These factors can increase the risk of infection and other complications.

Can I trim my own toenails if I have diabetes?

Some patients can safely trim their nails. Professional care is recommended if you have reduced sensation, poor circulation, thick nails, vision problems, or difficulty reaching your feet.

Should I walk barefoot at home?

No. Walking barefoot increases the risk of cuts, punctures, burns, and other injuries that may not be immediately noticed.

Can I use corn-removal products?

Do not use medicated corn-removal products without professional guidance. The acids in these products can damage healthy skin and create wounds.

What should I do if I find a blister?

Do not pop the blister. Protect the area from pressure and contact your healthcare provider, especially if the blister is large, red, draining, or accompanied by swelling.

When is a diabetic foot problem an emergency?

Seek urgent medical care for spreading redness, significant swelling, drainage, black or blue skin, fever, a deep wound, or a sudden warm and swollen foot.