Living with diabetes requires daily attention, especially when it comes to foot health. For many, foot care may not be top of mind—but it should be. Diabetes can quietly damage nerves and blood vessels in the feet, making even minor injuries dangerous if left untreated. That’s why understanding diabetic foot care is essential to staying healthy and independent. In this guide, you’ll learn why proper foot care matters, how to detect early warning signs, and what you can do to protect yourself.
Why Diabetic Foot Care Matters
When blood sugar levels remain high over time, they can damage nerves (a condition known as peripheral neuropathy) and reduce circulation to the feet. This combination can lead to:
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Loss of sensation
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Delayed healing of wounds
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Higher risk of infection
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Foot ulcers or, in severe cases, amputation
The good news? Most serious foot complications are preventable with early care and consistent monitoring. Neighborhood Medical Center in Dallas offers podiatry services with Dr. Jonathan Pajouh, DPM.
What to Expect During a Diabetic Foot Exam
Routine foot exams are one of the most effective tools in preventing complications. Dr. Pajouh performs comprehensive evaluations that go beyond just a quick look.
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Visual Inspection: Checks for skin changes, blisters, corns, calluses, nail issues, or any open sores.
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Nerve Testing: Simple in-office tests help determine if you're experiencing reduced sensation—one of the first signs of diabetic neuropathy.
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Circulation Check: Dr. Pajouh evaluates blood flow to your feet to assess your risk of poor healing.
By identifying early issues, you can take action before they become serious.
Spotting Trouble Early: Ulcers & Infections
Because diabetes can reduce feeling in your feet, you may not notice a problem until it becomes serious. That’s why daily foot checks and regular visits to a podiatrist, such as Dr. Pajouh, are critical.
Early warning signs include:
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Redness or swelling
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Blisters or sores that don’t heal
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Warmth or unusual temperature changes
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Discharge or foul odor
Dr. Pajouh helps patients understand what to watch for and when to seek immediate care. Catching problems early means faster healing and fewer long-term risks.
Personalized Care Plans
No two feet—and no two patients—are the same. At NMC Foot & Ankle, Dr. Pajouh develops care plans tailored to each individual’s condition, lifestyle, and risk level.
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Custom Orthotics: Special inserts designed to reduce pressure on high-risk areas, helping prevent ulcers and calluses.
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Footwear Guidance: Dr. Pajouh recommends shoes that offer the right balance of support and protection, especially for patients with deformities or loss of sensation.
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Wound Management: For those already dealing with wounds or ulcers, he provides expert care to promote healing and prevent recurrence.
Lifestyle Tips to Support Healthy Feet
Good foot care starts at home. In addition to regular medical checkups, adopting a few key habits can help prevent complications:
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Monitor Blood Sugar: Keeping blood sugar in a healthy range reduces the risk of nerve damage and infection.
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Wash & Inspect Feet Daily: Look for cracks, cuts, or changes in color. Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.
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Use Moisturizer (Carefully): Prevent dry skin and cracking, but avoid applying lotion between the toes to prevent fungal infections.
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Stay Active: Low-impact exercises like walking or swimming help improve circulation.
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Don’t Go Barefoot: Even indoors, wear protective footwear to avoid injury.
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Quit Smoking: Smoking reduces circulation and slows healing—especially dangerous for diabetics.
Dr. Pajouh can help you turn these healthy habits into long-term routines by offering personalized advice, monitoring your progress, and recommending products or treatments tailored to your specific foot care needs.
When to Seek Immediate Help
If you experience any of the following, don’t wait:
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Cuts or blisters that aren’t healing
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Signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling, discharge)
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Sudden numbness, tingling, or burning
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Discoloration in toes or feet
Prompt attention from a podiatrist like Dr. Pajouh can mean the difference between a quick recovery and a serious complication.
Take Charge of Your Foot Health Today
Diabetic foot problems are common—but they are not inevitable. With the right approach, many issues can be prevented or managed before they escalate. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing diabetes for years, consistent foot care is key to long-term wellness.
If you're ready to protect your feet and your health, book an appointment with Dr. Jonathan Pajouh, DPM at Neighborhood Medical Center in Dallas today. Your future self will thank you.