In the United States alone, more than 32.4 million people suffer from diabetes. This disease can lead to complications with your foot health. Podiatry issues typically arise when there is nerve damage – known as neuropathy. This is a serious condition that you need to discuss with a medical professional. Dr. Frank S. Campo is a Boston-based podiatrist who can help you with your diabetic foot care.

What is Neuropathy

Although neuropathy can cause pain and tingling in your feet, because of the nerve damage, it can cause loss of feeling in your feet. This means you may no be able to feel heat, cold, or external pain. For example, you could have a small stone in your shoe and not feel it cutting into your foot. This means you could get a blister or laceration that could develop an infection if it is not noticed. Neuropathy can also cause changes in the shape of your feet. In this case, you could benefit from specially customized shoes. A podiatrist can help you with these.

Diabetes and Skin Changes

Diabetes can also affect the skin on your feet. Sometimes, you may experience very dry skin, which may crack and peel. This happens when the nerves responsible for moisturizing your feet no longer work properly. Each time you bathe, you should dry your feet carefully, making sure that you dry between your toes. You can also benefit from applying a thin coat of diabetic foot cream or petroleum jelly. You should avoid applying moisturizer between your toes as extra moisture in these areas can cause infection. You should also avoid soaking your feet in water for a long time as this can make your skin even drier.

Concerned? Give Us a Call

If you suffer from diabetes, you understand the importance of taking good care of your feet. If you are having problems or would like some advice about your diabetic foot care, contact Dr. Campo today on (617) 248-8682 to make an appointment.