In the same manner, in which someone should see a dentist when they’re experiencing tooth pain or an optometrist when experiencing eye problems, podiatrists are the go-to specialists for all issues concerning the foot and ankle.

There are no other specialists in the world with more advanced and in-depth training for this often-abused part of the body and proper food care is particularly important if you have diabetes. Foot issues are common and account for more hospital admissions than any other diabetic complication.

That’s because over time this disease can dramatically decrease blood circulation and damage pedal nurses making patients more susceptible to developing calluses, swelling, and open foot wounds, which greatly increases the risk of amputation.

A diabetic with nerve damage loses sensation in their feet and can step onto something without even knowing it. The cut may then become infected and if there is concomitantly reduced blood supply to the area the wound heals slowly. If left untreated an amputation may be required.

Foot issues are common and account for more hospital admissions than any other diabetic complication.

Fortunately, foot problems can be avoided in this and every other population, if you check your feet daily and act quickly with a problem, is discovered.

Apart from wounds, podiatrists treat multiple other foot conditions including ingrown toenails, nail fungus, warts, foot and ankle sprains, fractures, heel pain, gout, bunions, and hammertoes.

Beyond that, I often inspect and recommend appropriate footwear and dispense custom orthotics (shoe insoles) that correct biomechanical instability and improve body alignment.

Diabetics should have their feet checked at least once to twice per year to detect any potential problems and prevent any future complications. 

By Kenneth D. Kemp | Bahamas Foot & Ankle