Managing diabetes goes beyond monitoring your blood sugar; it also involves taking proactive steps to protect your feet. Complications like foot ulcers, infections, and nerve damage can escalate quickly if left untreated. Knowing when to see a specialist is vital to maintaining your mobility and preventing severe complications.
At Great Lakes Orthopedics, we specialize in advanced diabetic foot care for patients throughout Northwest Indiana. Our team, including Dr. Curt Martini, DPM, brings clinical expertise and compassionate care to help you address even the most complex foot conditions. Through routine exams, evidence-based treatments, and personalized care plans, we’re here to help you make your foot health a priority. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward healthier feet.
Recognizing when to seek professional care is key to staying ahead of diabetes-related foot conditions. Here’s what you need to know.
When to See a Specialist for Diabetic Foot Problems
Diabetes-related foot problems can range from mild to severe. While some issues can be managed at home with proper foot care, others require the attention of a foot specialist. Here are some common scenarios where consulting a specialist is essential.
Persistent Foot Pain or Numbness
If you frequently feel pain, tingling, or numbness in your feet, it may be a sign of nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy). Left untreated, this condition can lead to a loss of sensation, putting you at risk of missing injuries or developing severe complications.
Foot Ulcers or Wounds That Don’t Heal
Open sores or wounds, known as diabetic foot ulcers, often heal slowly due to poor circulation. This increases the risk of infections and can result in foot deformities or even amputation if not addressed. Specialist care, such as proper wound care and off-loading strategies, can promote healing and prevent further issues.
Signs of Infection
Redness, warmth, swelling, or pus are all warning signs of a foot infection. Fungal infections, ingrown toenails, and skin cracks may also lead to complications if not treated promptly. Severe infections can even require hospitalization or surgical intervention, making early detection critical.
Changes in Foot Shape or Function
Diabetes can affect your foot shape, leading to deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, or Charcot foot. These structural changes increase pressure points and can result in ulcers if not managed with therapeutic shoes or custom orthotics.
Poor Circulation or Cold Feet
Reduced blood flow to the lower legs and feet, often caused by peripheral artery disease, hinders the healing process and increases the risk of serious complications. If you notice that your feet feel cold, change color, or show shiny skin, it’s time to see a specialist.
Treatments for Advanced Diabetic Foot Conditions
At Great Lakes Orthopedics, we offer a range of treatments to manage advanced diabetes-related foot problems. Early intervention can prevent complications and support your body’s ability to heal.
Evidence-Based Wound Care
Proper wound care techniques, including removing pressure from the wound (off-loading) and applying advanced therapies like dressings and skin substitutes, help accelerate the healing process for diabetic foot ulcers.
Addressing Nerve and Circulatory Issues
Treatments for nerve damage and poor circulation may involve lifestyle modifications, medication, or even surgical interventions in collaboration with a vascular surgeon. These strategies aim to restore blood flow, minimize pain, and improve long-term outcomes.
Infection Management
Addressing foot infections quickly is of utmost importance. From treating fungal infections to managing deep tissue infections, our team ensures that you receive timely and appropriate treatment tailored to your condition.
Preventive Education and Care
Dr. Martini and the team at Great Lakes Orthopedics emphasize the importance of preventive care, such as regular foot exams, keeping your toenails trimmed, and wearing shoes that fit well to reduce the risk of common foot issues.
Benefits of Early Intervention for Diabetic Foot Complications
Seeking specialist care early can significantly affect your outcomes when it comes to diabetic foot complications. Here’s why early intervention matters.
- Lower Risk of Infection: Untreated conditions, such as minor cuts or blisters, can worsen and lead to infections. Early care helps stop these problems before they escalate.
- Better Healing Outcomes: Advanced techniques, like growth factor treatments and pressure management, support your body’s natural healing abilities.
- Prevent Severe Complications: Addressing issues like foot deformities and ulcers early can prevent conditions from becoming lifelong challenges or requiring amputation.
Warning Signs That Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Certain symptoms indicate the need for immediate care. Contact a foot specialist if you notice any of the following signs:
- Persistent pain or swelling
- Yellow toenails or other signs of infection
- Cracks in the skin that don’t heal
- Open sores that worsen over time
- Difficulty walking due to changes in your foot shape
Why Choose Great Lakes Orthopedics for Diabetic Foot Care
At Great Lakes Orthopedics, we understand the complexities of managing advanced diabetic foot conditions. With locations in St. John, Crown Point, and Lowell, our experts, including Dr. Martini, provide compassionate care designed to help you stay active and healthy. Our comprehensive services include regular foot exams, advanced wound care, and patient education tailored to your needs.
Whether you’re dealing with a foot ulcer, signs of nerve damage, or other complications, we’re here to deliver the gold standard in diabetic foot care.
Protect Your Feet with Specialized Care
Managing diabetic foot conditions isn’t just about addressing existing complications; it’s about protecting your overall health and mobility. With expert care from Great Lakes Orthopedics, you can take control of your foot health and prevent severe complications.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Martini or one of our specialists today to receive personalized care for your diabetic foot needs. Call (219) 365-0220 or visit our website to get started.
