Why You Need an Experienced Podiatrist on Your Diabetes Care Team

For people with diabetes, a podiatrist plays a key role in protecting foot and ankle health. Diabetes, even when well-managed, raises the risk for foot complications. In fact, 80% of lower limb amputations in the United States are the result of complications from diabetes.

Board-certified podiatric surgeon and wound care specialist Jared Clegg, DPM, FACFAS, leads the team at Cascade Foot & Ankle, and provides exceptional diabetic foot care. 

Diabetes can lead to a range of foot-related complications, primarily as a result of reduced sensation and poor circulation. The longer you have diabetes, the higher the risk of foot complications. 

Diabetes damages nerves and can reduce circulation, causing reduced sensation in the lower legs and feet. A small cut on the bottom of your foot can quickly escalate to an ulcer that is slow to heal and at risk of infection.

Detecting foot problems early

Regular checkups with Dr. Clegg are crucial for catching potential foot problems early. Scheduling and attending regular foot checkups gives Dr. Clegg the chance to examine your feet for potential issues, and implement appropriate treatment when necessary. 

Nerve damage can prevent you from noticing foot injuries, and this makes it crucial to have a podiatrist work closely with you to identify and treat minor issues like cuts, blisters, and calluses before they escalate into serious ulcers or infections.

Early detection and intervention can prevent complications that might otherwise lead to hospitalization. 

Specialized care for diabetic foot conditions

Diabetes can cause issues that affect your feet, such as diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease, which affect the nerves and blood flow to the feet. Dr. Clegg has the expertise to manage these conditions effectively. 

Our team can provide treatments to relieve pain, improve functionality, and prevent further complications. Dr. Clegg can recommend appropriate footwear or custom orthotics to reduce pressure points and improve circulation, for example. 

Wound care expertise

For individuals with diabetes, slow healing can cause a small foot wound to quickly become a major health concern. Dr. Clegg specializes in wound care and can devise treatment plans to promote healing while preventing complications. 

Our team can apply appropriate dressings, clean wounds, and use techniques like off-loading to relieve pressure from the affected area, facilitating the healing process.

Collaborative diabetes management

Dr. Clegg works collaboratively with the rest of the diabetes care team, including primary care physicians, endocrinologists, and dietitians, to provide comprehensive care. 

This team approach ensures that you’re covered from all aspects. For example, if Dr. Clegg notices a change in your foot health, he can coordinate with other team members to adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Surgical interventions when necessary

In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address severe foot complications related to diabetes. Our team is equipped to perform these surgeries with an understanding of the unique considerations and risks for diabetes patients. Our expertise can be crucial in resolving complex foot issues while minimizing the risk of postoperative complications.

Good diabetes care means developing a strong partnership with an experienced care team. The team here at Cascade Foot & Ankle stand ready to assist you in taking care of your feet for a lifetime. For more information, and to schedule a visit, contact our office. We’re located in Provo and Nephi, Utah.