Clover Podiatry in Vancouver Will Help Keep Your Diabetic Feet Healthy
We understand that managing diabetes requires specialized care and attention to maintain good health from your head down to your toes. So our skilled podiatrists don't just treat your feet—we care for you as a whole person, with a deep understanding of how diabetes can impact your overall well-being. At Clover Podiatry, we craft personalized treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
Don’t leave your foot health to chance. Trust us to be your partners in care, providing the guidance, skill, and compassion you deserve on your journey to better foot health.
Why Proper Diabetic Foot Care Is Important
Without the right preventative care, people with diabetes are at risk for developing numerous complications. The American Diabetes Association indicates about 50 percent of people with this disease have some form of neuropathy or nerve damage, usually caused by high blood sugar levels. Without sensation in their lower extremities, they’re more prone to falls and injuries. Some people with diabetes also experience blood vessel hardening in their legs and feet, and this lack of circulation makes them vulnerable to infections and other serious issues. Even a small cut or blister can quickly turn into a compromising foot wound if left untreated.
Clover Podiatry will help you maintain healthy feet and prevent potential complications from diabetes. Here are just a few ways we improve your diabetic foot care.
- Regular examinations. At least once a year, arrange for one of our foot doctors to thoroughly inspect your feet for any signs of problems. This includes checking for neuropathy, poor circulation, deformities, ulcers, and infections. Regular examinations help detect issues early and take prompt action to prevent further complications.
- Wound care treatment. We understand the serious risks posed by foot ulcers for diabetic patients. Our owner, Dr. Tek Fish is a wound care specialist and provides contemporary treatment options tailored for diabetic feet, such as debridement to remove dead or infected tissue, specialized dressings to promote healing, and innovative wound care therapies like UltraMIST. Prompt medical attention for ulcers helps prevent life-threatening infections, tissue damage, and potential amputations.
- Customized orthotics and footwear. To maintain good health and mobility when you have diabetes, proper footwear is essential. At Clover Podiatry, we’ll recommend and provide custom-made orthotics and diabetic footwear designed to redistribute pressure, accommodate deformities, and promote better circulation.
- Nail care. Ingrown toenails, thick nails, and onychomycosis—also known as toenail fungus—are common problems for diabetic patients. If not properly managed, these conditions put you at risk for infection and foot wounds. Our podiatrists provide safe and effective nail care, including trimming, filing, and treating nail disorders.
- Education and prevention. Our medical team believes in providing you with all the information you need to take control of your foot health. We’ll teach you proper foot care techniques, such as daily foot inspections, proper hygiene, and the importance of maintaining good blood sugar control. In addition, we can provide guidance on exercise, footwear, and lifestyle changes to prevent foot complications.
Signs You Need to See a Foot Doctor
Checking your feet daily for signs of problems or abnormalities is essential when you have diabetes. Don't leave the health of your feet to chance. If you notice the following symptoms, schedule an examination in our Vancouver office:
- Persistent pain or swelling
- Redness, warmth, or tenderness
- Cuts, blisters, or sores that don't heal
- Changes in skin color or temperature
- Unusual foot odor or drainage
We even provide same-day appointments for emergency situations.
Taking Care of Your Diabetic Feet
In addition to regular podiatrist visits, there are several steps you can take to maintain good diabetic foot care:
- Check your feet daily for any of the above symptoms. If you can't see the bottom of your feet, use a mirror or ask someone for help.
- Wash your feet daily with mild soap and lukewarm water, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Moisture can promote fungal infections and bacterial growth.
- Apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer to your feet (but not between the toes) to prevent cracking and dryness.
- Trim your toenails straight across and file any sharp edges to prevent ingrown nails or cutting the surrounding skin.
- Choose well-fitting, comfortable shoes with good support and cushioning. Avoid going barefoot, even at home, to protect your feet from potential injury.
Additionally, maintaining your target blood sugar level is crucial for preventing and slowing the progression of diabetic complications, including foot problems.
When you have diabetes, it sometimes feels as though you have enough concerns to manage already. At Clover Podiatry, we understand that preventative foot care isn’t simply a matter of comfort or aesthetics—it ensures you’ll have one less thing to worry about to continue to enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle. We’ll do all we can to help.