You need to take special care of your feet if you have diabetes. Dr. Kathy Tjamaloukas and Dr. George Tjamaloukas at Comprehensive 
Foot and Ankle Center, PA in Land O' Lakes, FL provide appropriate foot care for people with diabetes. Here are six reasons why diabetics need to take special care of their feet.
#1- Skin Changes
Diabetes can affect many parts of your body, including your skin. Diabetes can cause changes in the skin of your feet. At times your feet may become extremely dry. The skin on your feet may crack and peel. The problem is that the nerves that control the moisture and oil in your feet no longer work.
#2- Neuropathy
Diabetes can cause decreased blood flow to your feet and loss of feeling known as neuropathy. It is the most common complication of diabetes. Nerve damage can lessen your ability to feel heat, cold and pain. Loss of feeling often means you may not feel a foot injury.
#3- Foot Ulcers
Ulcers occur most often on the bottom of the big toe or ball of the foot. Ulcers on the sides of the feet are usually due to poorly fitting shoes. Neglecting foot ulcers can result in an infection, which in turn can lead to loss of a limb. Remember that even though some foot ulcers don't hurt, every foot ulcer should be seen by your doctor right away.
#4- Calluses
Calluses occur more often on the feet of people with diabetes. This is because there are high-pressure areas under the feet. Individuals with diabetes should have calluses treated by a podiatrist. When neglected and allowed to accumulate, calluses can cause pressure necrosis and ulceration of the underlying tissues.
#5- Gangrene
Individuals with diabetes have an increased risk of developing gangrene. Gangrene is a condition that occurs when body tissue dies. Gangrene often occurs in individuals with diabetes who unknowingly injure a foot or toe. Prompt attention to an injury on your foot can prevent gangrene.
#6- Amputation
Individuals with diabetes are more likely to have a leg or foot amputated than other individuals. This is because many diabetics have peripheral arterial disease, which reduces blood flow to the feet. Most amputations are preventable with regular care and proper footwear.
Taking good care of your feet can prevent problems before they start! Call Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Center, PA in Land O' Lakes, FL at (813) 909-0865 today to book an appointment for a foot exam. Our outstanding podiatrists are dedicated to providing superior diabetic care in Land O' Lakes.