The diabetes management team is usually made up of a physical therapist, nutritionist, and endocrinologist. But this team approach to patient care, tends to overlook a key player in the maintenance of a patient's functionality. That is the podiatrist. In severe cases of diabetes, small cuts if left untreated can lead to the amputation of the lower leg. This is where the expertise of the Austin foot doctor comes in.

Diabetics suffer form high blood sugar levels. Over time, this leads to the damage of blood vessels, eyes, and kidneys. High blood sugar levels also attract microorganisms thereby increasing bacterial count in wounds. This could then cause gangrene, a condition that may require amputation.

Although treatment of foot problems have improved immensely, there is still no better way of preventing the loss of limbs than preventing an injury in the first place. Awareness is key to prevention. Effectively conducting proper and periodical inspection is one such prevention method that your doctor can teach you.

Podiatrists will assist you through all aspects of footcare. From examination to determining symptoms and throughout treatment if necessary. Other things that your podiatrist can do for you are the following.

Effective inspection of the feet requires more than just looking. There are certain parts that are more susceptible to injuries. Those will be pointed out to you by your doctor.

Should it be established that an injury has occurred, the doctor will do any or all of the following. They will clean your wound and give you instructions on how to properly change wound dressing. Antibiotics are also prescribed to prevent infection. And they can give you advise on proper shoes to allow for faster healing of the wound and to prevent new wounds for happening.

Limb amputation should not concern you even if you are a chronic diabetes patient. You will still be able to live an active lifestyle if you take care of yourself well. One such person who can teach how to do that is an Austin foot doctor.