Podiatrist: Preventing Diabetic Foot Problems

This article provides general information about diabetic foot care and prevention, including advice from podiatrists on diabetic foot prevention. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

Taking care of your feet is one of the most important things you can do as a senior with diabetes. Working with a podiatrist diabetic foot prevention specialist can help you avoid serious complications and maintain your independence. Let’s explore how regular podiatric care can protect your feet and keep you walking comfortably for years to come.

Why Diabetic Foot Care Matters for Seniors

Diabetes can affect your feet in two major ways:

1. Reduced blood flow makes it harder for injuries to heal
2. Nerve damage (neuropathy) means you might not feel cuts, sores, or blisters

Without proper care, small problems can quickly become serious. The good news? Most diabetic foot problems are entirely preventable with the right approach.

💡 Startling Fact: Up to 85% of diabetes-related amputations could be prevented with proper foot care and regular podiatrist visits.

When to See a Podiatrist

Schedule Immediately If You Notice:

• Cuts or sores that won’t heal
• Red, warm, or swollen areas
• Ingrown toenails
• Calluses or corns
• Changes in foot shape
• New pain or numbness
• Skin color changes
• Foul odor from feet

Regular Check-Ups

Even without problems, see a podiatrist:

• Every 3 months if you have neuropathy
• Every 6 months if you have good sensation
• More often if you’ve had foot ulcers

Medicare covers podiatrist visits for diabetic foot care! Call 727-831-3729 to learn about your coverage.

Your Daily Foot Care Routine

Morning Inspection (2 minutes)

1. Check every part of your feet
   • Use a mirror for the bottoms
   • Look between all toes
   • Check for cuts, blisters, or color changes
2. Feel for hot spots
   • Gently touch each foot
   • Note any temperature differences
   • Check for swelling
3. Document concerns
   • Keep a foot diary
   • Take photos of problem areas
   • Share with your podiatrist

Daily Cleaning Ritual

Step 1: Wash Gently

• Use lukewarm water (test with elbow)
• Mild soap only
• Don’t soak feet
• Clean between toes carefully

Step 2: Dry Thoroughly

• Pat, don’t rub
• Pay special attention between toes
• Use a soft, clean towel
• Change towels frequently

Step 3: Moisturize Smartly

• Apply lotion to tops and bottoms
• Avoid between toes
• Use diabetic-specific lotions
• Massage gently to improve circulation

Choosing the Right Footwear

What Your Podiatrist Recommends

Essential Features:

• Wide, deep toe box
• Cushioned sole
• Breathable materials
• Adjustable closure (velcro or laces)
• Seamless interior
• Firm heel counter

Avoid These:

• Pointed toes
• High heels
• Flip-flops
• Going barefoot
• Tight elastic
• Worn-out shoes

Medicare-Covered Diabetic Shoes

Did you know Medicare Part B covers:

• One pair of diabetic shoes per year
• Three pairs of inserts
• Fitting by qualified professional

Your podiatrist can prescribe these!

Professional Foot Care Services

What Happens During a Podiatrist Visit

Comprehensive Exam Includes:

1. Visual inspection of feet and legs
2. Sensation testing with monofilament
3. Circulation check
4. Skin and nail assessment
5. Foot structure evaluation
6. Gait analysis

Treatment Services:

• Safe nail trimming
• Callus and corn removal
• Wound care
• Custom orthotics fitting
• Infection treatment
• Education and prevention planning

Questions to Ask Your Podiatrist

1. “What’s my risk level for foot problems?”
2. “How often should I schedule visits?”
3. “Can you teach my caregiver foot care?”
4. “What warning signs need immediate attention?”
5. “Are my shoes appropriate?”

Preventing Common Diabetic Foot Problems

Problem 1: Diabetic Ulcers

Prevention:

• Daily inspections
• Proper footwear
• Moisture control
• Prompt treatment of injuries
• Regular podiatrist visits

Early Signs:

• Drainage on socks
• Redness or swelling
• Black tissue
• Foul odor
• Pain (if nerves aren’t damaged)

Problem 2: Infections

Prevention:

• Keep feet clean and dry
• Treat cuts immediately
• Never use over-the-counter corn removers
• Don’t attempt “bathroom surgery”
• Monitor temperature changes

Problem 3: Poor Circulation

Signs to Watch:

• Cold feet
• Hair loss on legs
• Shiny skin
• Slow-healing wounds
• Cramping in calves

Circulation Boosters:

• Gentle foot exercises
• Elevation when sitting
• Avoid crossing legs
• Stop smoking
• Stay active

Home Care Do’s and Don’ts

✅ DO These Things

• Trim nails straight across
• File edges gently
• Wear clean, dry socks daily
• Check water temperature before bathing
• Keep feet elevated when sitting
• Wiggle toes throughout the day

❌ DON’T Do These

• Use heating pads on feet
• Walk barefoot (even indoors)
• Use chemical corn removers
• Ignore “minor” problems
• Wear restrictive socks
• Attempt self-surgery

Creating Your Foot-Safe Home

Bathroom Safety

• Install grab bars
• Use non-slip mats
• Keep a shower chair handy
• Ensure good lighting
• Store foot care supplies accessibly

Bedroom Modifications

• Night light to bathroom
• Clear pathways
• Slippers by bedside
• Phone within reach
• First aid kit nearby

Living Areas

• Remove throw rugs
• Secure electrical cords
• Improve lighting
• Clear clutter
• Smooth transitions between rooms

Working with Your Healthcare Team

Your Foot Care Team Includes:

• Podiatrist: Specialized foot care
• Primary doctor: Overall diabetes management
• Endocrinologist: Hormone and glucose control
• Vascular surgeon: If circulation problems
• Wound care specialist: For non-healing sores

Coordination Tips

• Share records between providers
• Keep a master medication list
• Document all foot issues
• Maintain appointment calendar
• Communicate changes promptly

Emergency Foot Care Plan

When to Call 911:

• Severe infection signs (fever, red streaks)
• Gangrene (black tissue)
• Severe pain with color changes
• Inability to walk
• High fever with foot problems

When to Call Your Podiatrist:

• New sores or wounds
• Increasing redness
• Drainage from feet
• Nail problems
• Unusual swelling

Keep these numbers handy:

• Podiatrist: ____________
• Primary Doctor: ____________
• Emergency: 911
• Senior CGM Support: 727-831-3729

Technology for Foot Health

Helpful Tools

• Temperature monitoring socks
• Foot scanning apps
• Reminder apps for daily checks
• Photo documentation apps
• Telemedicine for follow-ups

Simple Aids

• Long-handled mirror
• Magnifying glass
• Good lighting
• Comfortable seating
• Reach extenders

Seasonal Foot Care

Summer Precautions

• Never go barefoot
• Protect from sunburn
• Stay hydrated
• Check for athlete’s foot
• Avoid hot surfaces

Winter Warnings

• Warm socks (not tight)
• Waterproof boots
• Check for frostbite
• Moisturize more frequently
• Clear ice and snow

Medicare Coverage Details

What’s Covered:

• Podiatrist visits for diabetic foot care
• Therapeutic shoes and inserts
• Foot exams
• Treatment of foot problems
• Some preventive services

How to Maximize Benefits:

1. Get doctor’s referral
2. Use Medicare-approved providers
3. Understand your deductible
4. Keep all documentation
5. Appeal denials if necessary

Success Stories

Robert, 72: “My podiatrist caught a small ulcer before I even noticed it. Quick treatment meant it healed in weeks instead of months.”

Maria, 68: “Getting Medicare-covered diabetic shoes changed my life. No more foot pain, and I can walk my dog again!”

James, 75: “Monthly podiatrist visits seemed excessive until they prevented an infection that could have cost me my foot.”

Building Your Prevention Routine

Daily (5 minutes)

• [ ] Morning foot inspection
• [ ] Proper washing and drying
• [ ] Moisturizer application
• [ ] Appropriate footwear
• [ ] Evening check

Weekly (10 minutes)

• [ ] Detailed foot examination
• [ ] Nail care if needed
• [ ] Shoe inspection
• [ ] Supply inventory
• [ ] Photo documentation

Monthly

• [ ] Professional appointment (if needed)
• [ ] Review foot diary
• [ ] Update emergency contacts
• [ ] Check Medicare benefits
• [ ] Celebrate healthy feet!

Your Foot Care Shopping List

Essential Supplies:

• Mild soap
• Soft towels
• Diabetic lotion
• Nail clippers (if approved)
• Emery boards
• Mirror
• First aid supplies
• Comfortable socks
• Proper shoes

Where to Buy:

• Pharmacy (Medicare may cover some items)
• Medical supply stores
• Online retailers
• Podiatrist’s office
• Specialty shoe stores

Creating Your Action Plan

This Week:

1. Start daily foot inspections
2. Schedule podiatrist appointment
3. Check Medicare coverage
4. Buy proper supplies
5. Establish routine

This Month:

1. Get comprehensive foot exam
2. Address any problems found
3. Get fitted for diabetic shoes
4. Create emergency plan
5. Educate family members

This Year:

1. Maintain regular podiatrist visits
2. Prevent any ulcers or infections
3. Keep feet healthy and pain-free
4. Stay active and independent
5. Share success with others

The Bottom Line

Your feet carry you through life – they deserve the best care possible. Regular podiatrist visits combined with daily prevention can help you avoid serious complications and maintain your independence. With Medicare coverage available for many services, there’s no reason to neglect your foot health.

Remember: When it comes to diabetic foot care, an ounce of prevention truly is worth a pound of cure. Start your prevention routine today!

Need Help with Medicare Coverage for Diabetic Supplies?

Our specialists can help you understand your benefits and get the supplies you need.

Call Now: 727-831-3729
Email: support@seniorcgmsupport.com