Fords Foot and Ankle Care | Fords, NJ
Diabetes can affect many aspects of your health—and your feet are no exception. At Fords Foot and Ankle Care, we understand the importance of specialized diabetic foot care to prevent complications, promote circulation, and maintain mobility. If you or a loved one is living with diabetes, routine foot care should be an essential part of your healthcare plan.
Why Diabetic Foot Care Is Essential
Diabetes can cause a range of foot-related complications, primarily due to poor circulation and nerve damage (neuropathy). These complications may lead to loss of sensation, slower healing, increased risk of infections, and in severe cases, ulcers or amputation. The good news is that with early intervention and proper podiatric care, many of these issues are entirely preventable.
Common Diabetic Foot Problems
- Neuropathy: Reduced or lost sensation in the feet, leading to unnoticed injuries.
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Narrowing of blood vessels reduces circulation and healing ability.
- Foot Ulcers: Open sores that develop from minor injuries and can become infected quickly.
- Calluses and Corns: Often develop faster and thicker in people with diabetes.
- Fungal Infections: Including athlete’s foot and fungal toenails due to compromised immunity.
Our Approach to Diabetic Foot Care
At Fords Foot and Ankle Care, we provide proactive, personalized diabetic foot care that includes:
- Comprehensive foot exams
- Wound and ulcer care
- Custom orthotics and diabetic shoes
- Nail and skin care
- Treatment of infections or injuries
- Circulation assessments
- Preventive education and home-care guidance
Whether you’re managing early-stage diabetes or already experiencing foot-related symptoms, our podiatric specialists are here to help safeguard your foot health.
Diabetic Foot Care: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How often should I have my feet checked if I have diabetes?
A: We recommend at least one podiatric exam per year. However, if you have existing foot problems, poor circulation, or neuropathy, more frequent visits (every 3–6 months) are advised.
Q: What should I look for when inspecting my feet at home?
A: Check daily for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, nail changes, or areas of warmth. Use a mirror or ask someone to help you inspect the bottoms of your feet.
Q: Can I still trim my toenails?
A: Yes—but carefully. Cut straight across and avoid digging into the corners. If you have poor vision, neuropathy, or circulation problems, it’s best to let a podiatrist manage nail care.
Q: Why are foot ulcers dangerous for people with diabetes?
A: Because of impaired healing and sensation, foot ulcers can quickly become infected. Left untreated, they can lead to hospitalization or even amputation.
Q: Are diabetic shoes and orthotics really necessary?
A: Yes. They help reduce pressure points, improve circulation, and lower the risk of sores and blisters. Custom orthotics are especially helpful for correcting structural foot imbalances.
Q: What if I notice a foot injury but it doesn’t hurt?
A: Don’t ignore it. Pain might be absent due to neuropathy. Always seek evaluation from a podiatrist if you notice wounds, swelling, or changes in skin color or temperature.
Tips for Daily Diabetic Foot Care
- Wash and dry your feet daily—especially between the toes.
- Apply moisturizing lotion to prevent dry, cracked skin (but not between toes).
- Wear clean, dry socks and well-fitting shoes every day.
- Never walk barefoot, even indoors.
- Avoid using heating pads or hot water directly on your feet.
- Quit smoking—it worsens circulation issues.
- Manage blood sugar levels carefully.
Protect Your Feet—Protect Your Health
At Fords Foot and Ankle Care, we partner with patients to develop a preventive foot health strategy tailored to your needs. Our goal is to help you maintain healthy feet and avoid complications that can disrupt your quality of life.
If you have diabetes and haven’t had a recent foot exam—or if you’re experiencing unusual foot symptoms—don’t wait. Early intervention is key.
Contact Fords Foot and Ankle Care Today
📍 Address: 519 New Brunswick Ave, Fords, NJ, 08863
📞 Phone: (732) 738-4441
🌐 Website: fordsfootandanklecare.com
Your feet take you everywhere—let us help you take care of them. Schedule your diabetic foot care appointment today.