Diabetes is a chronic disease that has the potential to damage the nerves in your feet – a condition known as peripheral neuropathy. If you are diabetic and experience numbness or tingling in your feet, it is extremely important to seek a medical evaluation as it can lead to loss of sensation in your feet. Dr. Michael Stein and Dr. Zeindelin Ahmad of Foot Doctor of the East Bay, with offices in Pleasanton, and San Leandro, CA, offer these valuable diabetic foot care tips regarding the early symptoms of diabetic foot.

First, it is essential to recognize that the symptoms and signs of diabetic foot vary by person. In addition, early signs of a diabetic foot include -

• Numbness or a Tingling Sensation in Your Feet.
  Nerve damage can lead to tingling or numbness in the feet, which ultimately makes it challenging to detect any sensation/injury to your foot.
• Pain & Discomfort.
  Some people experience shooting/sharp pains in one or both feet, which may be indicative of poor circulation and nerve damage.  
• Swelling in your Feet.
  Swelling in the feet or ankles can also indicate early concern for the condition known as diabetic foot. This is because swelling is often a sign of kidney problems (among other issues), which is a common issue for those with diabetes. 
• Changes to the Skin on Your Feet.
  Dry skin, calluses, and other skin issues may create a condition that makes your feet more at risk for infection.  
• Changes in One or More Toenails.
  Those with diabetes may find the condition impacts the health of their toenails. Affected toenails may become brittle, thick, or discolored – often due to fungal infections.
• Skin Temperature Changes on your Feet.
  A diabetic foot may be cooler or warmer to the touch due to poor circulation and an inability to regulate body temperature in this extremity.
• Sores on your Feet.
  Diabetes has the potential to impact the body’s ability to heal even minor cuts or blisters. If left untreated, sores or other skin problems can become a more serious condition and develop into an ulcer.

Contact a Leading Diabetic Foot Care Specialist Today

If you are diabetic, have noticed changes, or have concerns about your feet, contact the professional staff, Dr. Stein or Dr. Ahmad, at Foot Doctor of the East Bay. Foot Doctor of the East Bay offers early intervention and foot care to those living and working in and around these northern California locations - Pleasanton and San Leandro, CA. Call our San Leandro office at (510) 483-3390 or our location in Pleasanton at (925) 425-9684.