DON'T FORGET YOUR ANNUAL DIABETIC FOOT EXAM

Blood glucose control is the most important task of the diabetic. Checking your feet for changes in appearance is the second most important task!

The feet is one area that many complications can take place. Ulcers happen in almost 1/4 of all diabetic patients. These occur because of a condition known as Neuropathy which is the loss of feeling in the feet and lower extremities. It is also called nerve damage.

Another common condition in diabetics is decreased blood flow, also known as P.A.D., Peripheral Arterial Disease. Because of decreased blood circulation, ulcers and wounds take much longer to heal and could get infected.

Other factors will also increase risk levels such as, eye sight, kidney function, raised blood glucose level, foot and toe deformities and smoking.

The up side to all of this is through early detection most complications can be avoided. This is why you should have a Diabetic Foot Evaluation at least once a year.

What you should expect at your Diabetic Foot Evaluation.

Your visit will be performed by our Board Certified Podiatrists who are also Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He or she will ask about your history and what ailments you have.
Do you smoke? Do you have pain in the feet or legs? Is your vision okay? This detailed information will help your podiatrist formulate a treatment plan.

Are you wearing the proper size shoes and socks?

Your podiatrist will check your feet for hot spots, blisters and any irritations that may be caused by your shoes and socks. He or she will direct you to the proper size and fit. Our podiatrists at Cortese Foot and Ankle Clinic also participate in the Diabetic Shoe Program. You can pick out your new shoes in our Sole Savers Shoe Store located inside our office.

Please call today if you have not already scheduled your
Annual Diabetic Shoe Evaluation.
(309) 452-3000.

Visit us on the web at www.cortesefootandankle.com