Diabetes Specialist

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a medical condition that makes a person’s blood sugar levels spike. It’s caused by either an inability to produce insulin or an inability to process insulin. There are two types of diabetes: Type I, which is contracted at birth or during childhood, and Type II, which people can develop at any age. Both are lifelong conditions, but both are also treatable.

Why Should Diabetics See a Podiatrist?

It’s important for diabetics to regularly see a podiatrist who can check their foot for any injuries or ailments.

Because diabetes reduces a person’s blood circulation, it can cause a loss of feeling in parts of the peripheral nervous system. Diabetics sometimes don’t have good feeling in their feet, and some don’t even have any feeling in their feet. Without adequate feeling, it’s difficult to know when a foot is infected or injured.

As a medical doctor who specializes in feet, a podiatrist is able to check the overall health of the feet and treat any problems that develop.

What Should Diabetics Look for in a Podiatrist?

When selecting a podiatrist, diabetic patients should first look for a physician who is licensed and board-certified with the American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry. Additionally, patients should seek out a doctor who has a practice that’s conveniently located. Choosing a practice that’s close to a patient’s home, school, or office will make it easy to get to and from regular appointments.

How Long do Podiatrist Check-Ups Take?

Check-ups with a podiatrist don’t usually take any longer than check-ups with a primary care physician. In fact, a podiatrist’s appointment often requires less time because patients usually don’t need to get blood work done after the appointment. Many patients schedule these routine appointments around their work schedules and other daily obligations.