If you have diabetes, taking care of your feet is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health. Diabetes can affect circulation, nerve function, and the body’s ability to heal, increasing the risk of serious foot complications, such as infection and amputation.
At New Jersey Foot and Ankle Institute, we employ the LEAP program to provide the best and most updated foot care to our diabetic patients, preventing issues and complications before they start.
LEAP, which stands for Lower Extremity Amputation Prevention, is a five-step initiative designed to help educate diabetic patients, identify foot problems early, and prevent serious complications before they occur.
Step 1: Annual Foot Screening
Regular foot examinations by a podiatrist can help identify problems before they become serious.
Routine diabetic foot evaluations allow providers to assess:
- Circulation
- Sensation
- Skin health
- Nail conditions
- Pressure areas
- Foot deformities
Step 2: Patient Education
Patients should be aware of different symptoms and warning signs to look out for. By educating our patients and providing them with self management skills, they are able to become full partners in their foot care. Never hesitate to ask questions, as understanding the risks can help prevent future complications.
Step 3: Daily Self- Inspection
Check your feet daily for:
- Cuts
- Blisters
- Redness
- Swelling
- Drainage
- Skin changes
- Nail problems
If you have difficulty seeing the bottoms of your feet, use a mirror or ask a family member for assistance.
Step 4: Footwear Selection
A loss of sensation in the feet results in the inability to feel if shoes are too tight, too loose, rubbing, or putting too much pressure on a part of the foot.
Podiatrists can assist patients with:
- Selecting appropriate footwear
- Ensuring the proper fit of shoes
- Checking and evaluating patients’ current footwear
Step 5: Management of Simple Foot Problems
Treating small, simple problems can help to prevent the development of larger problems like injuries, wounds, and infections.
Diabetic patients benefit from regular foot care for:
- Nail trimming
- Callus care
- Dry and cracked skin
The NJFAI Difference
At New Jersey Foot & Ankle Institute, we provide comprehensive diabetic foot care, including:
- Diabetic foot examinations
- Neuropathy assessments
- Basic wound care
- Preventive care
- Nail and skin management
- Diabetic shoe evaluations
- Education on proper foot care practices
We’re committed to helping diabetic patients protect their feet and maintain their quality of life. Contact our office today to schedule a comprehensive diabetic foot evaluation and learn how the LEAP program can help keep you moving safely.
