Diabetic Foot Care IN HOUSTON TX AND SURROUNDING AREAS
Get the Top Diabetic foot treatment in Houston, TX, at vital podiatry. Our specialists create personalized treatment plans according to your specific needs. We prioritize your well-being and work towards positive outcomes.
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What is
Diabetic foot AND TREATMENT IN HOUSTON TX?
Diabetic foot is a condition that affects individuals with diabetes and refers to a range of complications that can occur in the feet. It is primarily caused by two factors: nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor blood circulation (peripheral vascular disease). Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the nerves and blood vessels, leading to reduced sensation, slower wound healing, and an increased risk of foot ulcers and infections.
One of the hallmark features of diabetic foot is neuropathy, which affects the nerves in the feet. This can result in a loss of sensation, making it difficult for individuals to detect foot injuries or changes in temperature. It can also lead to tingling or numbness in the feet. Additionally, peripheral vascular disease can cause reduced blood flow to the feet, further compromising their health and healing capabilities.
The combination of neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease puts individuals with diabetic foot at higher risk for foot complications. Even minor injuries, such as blisters or cuts, can go unnoticed and develop into ulcers. These ulcers can be slow to heal and prone to infection. Left untreated, they can progress to more severe complications, such as gangrene, which may require amputation.
It is crucial for individuals with diabetic foot to seek professional care from a podiatrist specializing in diabetic foot management. Our podiatrists at Vital Podiatry can provide appropriate treatment, wound care, and guidance on proper foot care techniques. Early intervention and proactive management can help prevent serious complications and maintain optimal foot health for individuals with diabetes.
Signs of diabetic foot
Diabetic foot can present with a variety of signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of complications. It is important for individuals with diabetes to be aware of these signs and seek prompt medical attention if they experience any of the following:
Numbness or tingling
Peripheral neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes, can cause loss of sensation in the feet. This may result in a feeling of numbness or tingling in the affected area.
Changes in skin color
The skin of the foot may appear pale, reddish, or bluish due to reduced blood flow to the area. In some cases, the skin may appear shiny or thin.
Open sores or ulcers
Slow-healing wounds or ulcers can develop on the feet, particularly over areas of high pressure or friction. These sores may be painless due to neuropathy and can become infected if not properly treated.
Swelling
Swelling in the foot or ankle can be a sign of poor circulation or fluid retention. It is important to differentiate this swelling from other causes, such as injury or infection.
Foot
deformities
Over time, the structure of the foot can change due to nerve damage and muscle weakness. This can lead to the development of foot deformities, such as hammertoes or Charcot foot.
Foot pain or cramping
Some individuals with diabetic foot may experience persistent or intermittent pain in the foot, ranging from mild discomfort to severe cramping.
Foul
odor
In cases where infection is present, the foot may emit a foul odor. This is often accompanied by other signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or drainage.
It is important to note that not all individuals with diabetic foot will experience the same signs and symptoms. Regular foot examinations by a podiatrist are essential for early detection and management of any complications.
What can cause diabetic foot?
Diabetic foot is primarily caused by two major complications of diabetes: peripheral neuropathy and peripheral artery disease.
1. Peripheral neuropathy
This condition occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the nerves, particularly those in the extremities like the feet. As a result, individuals with diabetes may experience a loss of sensation in their feet, making it difficult to detect injuries or changes in temperature. Nerve damage can also affect the muscles and lead to foot deformities or changes in gait. Additionally, neuropathy can cause dry skin and decreased sweat production, increasing the risk of cracks, fissures, and infection.
2. Peripheral artery disease (PAD):
Diabetes can also contribute to the development of peripheral artery disease, which is the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels that supply the legs and feet. Reduced blood flow can impair the healing process and increase the risk of infection. Poor circulation also means that the feet receive fewer nutrients and oxygen, making them more susceptible to injury and delayed wound healing.
There are also other factors that can contribute to diabetic foot such as conditions like bunions, hammertoes, and Charcot foot which can increase pressure points and the risk of developing ulcers. Wearing shoes that are too tight or do not provide proper support can lead to friction, pressure, and foot injuries. Any injury to the foot, such as cuts, burns, or puncture wounds, can be more severe and take longer to heal in individuals with diabetes.Bacterial or fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot or cellulitis, can occur more frequently and be more challenging to treat in individuals with diabetes due to compromised immune function.
It is important for individuals with diabetes to maintain good blood sugar control, practice proper foot hygiene, wear well-fitting and supportive shoes, and undergo regular foot examinations by a podiatrist to prevent and manage diabetic foot complications.
Our treatment plan for Diabetic foot IN HOUSTON TX
Vital Podiatry plays an important role in the treatment and management of diabetic foot complications. Our podiatrists are trained to provide specialized care for individuals with diabetes to prevent, identify, and address foot problems.
A podiatrist in Houston will perform regular comprehensive foot examinations to assess circulation, sensation, and foot structure. This helps in identifying any potential problems early on and developing a personalized treatment plan. Podiatrists educate patients on proper foot care techniques, including daily washing and drying of the feet, moisturizing, and nail care. They also provide guidance on selecting appropriate footwear and the importance of regular foot inspections. We can provide interventions for managing foot deformities that can contribute to diabetic foot complications. This may involve prescribing custom orthotics or footwear modifications to offload pressure points and enhance foot function.
If a foot ulcer or wound develops, a podiatrist will provide specialized wound care, including cleaning, debridement (removal of dead or infected tissue), and dressing. They may also prescribe offloading devices like custom-made shoes or orthotics to relieve pressure on the affected area and promote healing. Podiatrists are skilled in diagnosing and treating foot infections. They may prescribe antibiotics or other medications to manage infections and prevent them from spreading. For more severe foot ulcers, podiatrists may use advanced wound healing techniques, such as dressings with growth factors or specialized therapies like hyperbaric oxygen therapy. These treatments promote faster healing and reduce the risk of complications.
Overall, the goal of Our podiatry treatment for diabetic foot is to prevent complications, promote foot health, and improve overall quality of life for individuals with diabetes.
Fast and Efficient FOOT SPECIALIST IN HOUSTON TX
Vital Podiatry is dedicated to providing you with treatment options that are fast and easy so you can be back on your feet in no time.
Simply call us for a quick consultation over the phone or book an appointment to see a doctor in person. Our staff is always available on the phone, and we also book urgent appointments.
The doctor will conduct all relevant tests to accurately diagnose your foot condition. Since we offer in-clinic X-rays and vascular studies, it makes getting the results quicker and easier.
Depending on your diagnosis, our team will come up with a custom treatment plan tailored to your requirements and lifestyle. We work based on a holistic approach and make a treatment plan accordingly.
Throughout the treatment, our doctors will monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed. This ensures that you get the best approach to healing your foot condition.
Don’t let foot pain hold you back any longer. Schedule your appointment with Vital Podiatry today.
We are very proud of the treatment we have given to our patients. Through the years, we have received many positive reviews. We implore you to browse through them to learn more about our care and services.
Vital Podiatry did a wonderful job on diagnosing my issues in timely fashion. I was quickly taken in as a new patient and treated with respect.
Vital Podiatry is very understanding and takes the time to explain all remedies and procedures. The front office staff and assistants are extremely nice and personable.
The culture at every level is outstanding. From the excellent bedside manner during the physical examination to the post-operative care, the nursing care was amazing.
INSURANCE LIST
At Vital Podiatry, we believe that everyone deserves to have healthy and pain-free feet, which is why we accept a wide range of insurance plans to ensure our patients can receive the treatment they need without any financial burden.
See Your Podiatrist Today IN HOUSTON!
If you’re suffering from foot or ankle pain, don’t wait any longer to get the treatment you need. Book an appointment with Vital Podiatry today and take the first step toward getting the relief you need. At our podiatry practice, we offer a range of effective treatment options to help relieve your pain and improve your quality of life. Our experienced team of podiatrists develops a personalized treatment plan for your foot that is suited to your needs and goals.