diabetes – Anderson Podiatry Center

Diabetic Foot Care: Important Steps to Follow.

Posted on July 7, 2021 by admin

Do you have questions about diabetic foot care? Read this to know more!

Diabetes can be profoundly serious for your feet. In this blog, I will explain what you need to know about diabetic foot care. But before we get started on a list of things to keep in mind, it’s important to remember three basic principles about your feet. Understanding the following will give you better clarity regarding your diabetic feet and what’s important to consider.

Three ways diabetes affects your feet.

The nervous system – If you have diabetes there is a 50-70 percent chance you will have neuropathy. Diabetes can cause nerve damage especially in the feet and lower extremity. This will result in the symptoms of burning tingling and numbness in the feet. Because of numbness problems such corns and calluses may not be felt. At first the idea of numbness in the feet may not seem that bad because it might prevent you from feeling pain but that’s where the problem lies. This prevents the warning signs of pain that can be associated with an ingrown nail, a cut or blister. Quite common and serious issues occur with callouses on the bottom of the foot. With no pain the callous may eventually break down the skin causing an ulcer. Once the skin has broken open from the ulcer an infection is likely, and this can eventually get into bone. Once this occurs an amputation is more likely,so without the nervous system giving a warning in the form of pain problems such as corns, calluses, blisters and ingrown nails become more serious.
Circulatory system – It’s also known with diabetes that you have a higher propensity to have decreased blood flow to the lower extremity, especially the feet. When this happens, if there is any kind of cut or problem with the foot it may be harder to heal properly. It should also be emphasized that smoking combined with diabetes should be avoided. There is a many fold increase of circulatory complications with people who smoke. If a toe is injured with a cut and develops an ulceration, a dark area of the skin in this area could be an indication of gangrene and should be evaluated immediately.
Foot Deformities – Any type of foot problems such as a bunion or a hammer toe can create any irritation where the bony prominence will rub against shoe gear. This too can cause a problem because this can lead to a breakdown in the skin in the form of a callous or a corn that can eventually cause a foot ulcer. Properly fitted shoes are especially important. If the deformity is severe and difficult to accommodate in shoe gear, surgical correction may be considered by the podiatrist after appropriate workup, to ensure adequate blood flow is present for healing. Better to correct earlier then later in some situations as the circulation could become compromised enough later in the life to where surgery would be too risky.

General guidelines to follow

By following these tips, you can do a lot to take better care of your diabetic feet.

Be sure that you bathe your feet daily. Be careful to dry your feet especially between the toes after you are done.
It’s a good idea to inspect your feet every day. You may need to use a mirror to look throughout the foot on the top and on the bottom. Also in between the toes for any types of cracks or cuts that may be there.
Make sure to avoid walking barefoot. This is obviously a problem if you step on a foreign body or a cut.
Make sure that you test water with your hand before putting your foot in warm water such as a hot tub or a bath.
Use appropriate shoe gear and socks.
Make sure that you attributed nails and not dig in on the sides. Try to cut them somewhat straight across as if you don’t this could cause an ingrown nail.
Make sure that you control your diabetes well by controlling your blood sugar levels.
Make sure that you see your podiatrist on a regular basis. Some will recommend coming in every two to four months just for a general foot inspection.
With diabetes your feet may become drier, and this can cause cracking of the skin. So be sure to keep your skin moisturized.
Make sure that you have your foot checked by a professional, especially if you are getting a corn or a callus that could be problematic and painful.
Never treat corn and calluses yourself. Over the counter products that are sold frequently have acids in them that eat away at the corn or callus. This is too risky to use in the diabetic foot.
Wear socks to bed if your feet are cold at night.

Diet Tips

To stop or delay nerve damage avoid carbohydrates and sugars. Make sure to have a diet that includes vegetables, fruits and protein. Also, a diet that includes fat is important as nerves need fat for proper function. Make sure it’s healthy fat such as grass-fed butter. A daily habit I have is to add grass fed butter to my coffee along with cinnamon. This avoids unhealthy additions to the coffee such as sugar or artificial creamers. The fat also satisfies your hunger so that you’re less likely to want to eat. A great book to use as a reference is Sugar Crush written by a colleague of mine Dr. Richard Jacoby.

Following these general guidelines should help you protect your feet from a dangerous situation that could occur when you have diabetes. Educating yourself is key when you want to prevent any serious problems.

Will Run for Buns

Posted on April 18, 2017 by admin

My favorite treat meal

A fond memory from my childhood is the smell of homemade cinnamon rolls wafting out from the kitchen. My mom would make these on Saturdays, and I sure did love to eat them. For all I knew back then, that was the breakfast of champions. Now, it’s my favorite treat meal.

So let’s fast forward. I’m now approaching my mid-sixties and I’m grateful to say I still run, ski, bike and hike. I’ve managed to keep fit and today I did a 90-minute trail run. I’m on no medication, have no significant medical problems and I’m not overweight. And I’m very grateful!

What I want to share is what works for me. It’s a compilation of books and articles I’ve read, my personal experience and those of other active fit people that continue to stay there into their senior years.

So although I am a specialist who treats the feet and conditions below the knee, I thought I would take a shot at sharing my own diet and fitness story too. My passion for this comes from treating patients suffering from nerve pain. Some have diabetes or pre-diabetes and have neuropathy. An important part of decreasing inflammation and preventing diseases like these is diet and exercise. So, I am hoping maybe this podiatrist can help you find a healthy lifestyle that works for you.

Here’s what has worked for me

I’m strict about what I eat during the five work days and give myself a little freedom to dabble in some junk food on weekends. My diet is not perfect, but it’s about 80 percent there. Exercise for me during the week is minimal, with ten to 15 minutes of weights, elliptical, yoga , push-ups or pull-ups, three of the five days.

Breakfast

I consider breakfast the most important meal, and I don’t vary it too much. My favorite is eggs, either boiled or scrambled with spinach. I may grab a few baby carrots too. If not eggs, then it’s a couple handfuls of mixed nuts. I have one large organic coffee with butter and coconut oil, also known as “bulletproof coffee.” To spice it up, I add cinnamon, since it’s a good anti-inflammatory.

Lunch

For lunch, I usually have canned smoked oysters or sardines, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids and protein. I may also have an orange, grapefruit or banana. This lunch is portable and easy for me to eat during a busy work day.

Dinner

This I’m the least strict about. Usually I have chicken, salmon or grass-fed beef and occasionally, steak. I try to avoid starches like pizza or pastas, but may backslide two or three times a month. I am human after all.

And finally, I’ve recently gotten in the habit of fasting on Mondays. I have my coffee, but nothing else except water until dinner. Notice I avoid breads with a special exception…

My favorite part of the week

Here it is. My favorite part of the week. I call it my “sticky bun run.” Saturday, I am up and on my way to Whole Foods. I get my sticky bun and bulletproof coffee. Then, I enjoy it as I drive up to the mountain trails west of Fort Collins. I will run 30 -60 minutes. With the fresh air, blood flowing, coffee and sticky bun on board, a lot of problems and weekly stress quickly goes away.

My message to you is simple. Get your veggies and fruits, reduce the carbs and sugars, and increase the healthy fats. They will satiate your appetite.

But most of all be kind to yourself, personalize it and find out on your own what works for you. Be consistent and honest with yourself. I’ve seen too many people reach too far and give up. You decide! Enjoy your food, your life, your exercise, and just keep moving.

And hey, have a sticky bun every once and awhile. Doctor’s orders (wink, wink).

Treating Neuropathy: The Weight Gain Effect

Posted on March 21, 2017July 1, 2025 by admin

For many people diagnosed with restless leg syndrome or neuropathy, weight gain can be an unwanted side effect of the medications that are typically prescribed.

Weight gain can cause while treating neuropathy:

Increased blood pressure: Carrying extra weight puts more strain on your heart, causing it to work harder to pump blood, which can lead to higher blood pressure. Over time, this can damage your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Risk of developing diabetes: Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Weight gain can lead to insulin resistance, where your body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin, causing blood sugar levels to rise.
Added stress on your feet: Your feet bear the weight of your entire body, and additional pounds can exacerbate foot pain and contribute to conditions such as plantar fasciitis and arthritis. For those already experiencing neuropathy, this added stress can worsen symptoms like pain and numbness.
Poor nerve function: Obesity can lead to metabolic and inflammatory changes that negatively impact nerve health. This can slow nerve function and worsen the symptoms of neuropathy, making it more difficult to manage.

Increased risk of developing cancer (and other diseases linked to obesity): Being overweight or obese is associated with a higher risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and prostate cancer. Obesity can also increase the likelihood of developing conditions such as fatty liver disease, gallbladder disease, and sleep apnea.

In this video, Dr. Anderson talks about the dangerous potential of weight gain and how this can negatively affect your overall health.

Alternative Treatment Options for Neuropathy:

If you are experiencing these symptoms, there is hope. Many of our patients come to us with a desire to get off of their medications and explore other treatment options for neuropathy and restless leg syndrome. Here are some alternatives that may be beneficial:

Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and losing weight can significantly reduce symptoms. Exercise can improve circulation and nerve health, while a balanced diet can provide essential nutrients for nerve repair and maintenance.
Physical Therapy: Tailored exercises and physical therapy can help improve strength, balance, and flexibility, which can reduce symptoms and improve overall quality of life.
Supplements and Vitamins: Certain vitamins and supplements, such as B vitamins, alpha-lipoic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown to support nerve health and reduce symptoms of neuropathy.
Alternative Therapies: Acupuncture, massage therapy, and chiropractic care are alternative treatments that some patients find beneficial in managing their symptoms without the side effects of medication.
Innovative Treatments: Advances in medical technology have led to new treatments such as electrical nerve stimulation and laser therapy, which can provide relief for some patients.

By addressing weight gain and exploring alternative treatments, it is possible to manage neuropathy and restless leg syndrome more effectively and improve your overall health and well-being.

Amputation: Three Things You Must Know if You’re Diabetic

Posted on November 29, 2016July 1, 2025 by admin

So, you’ve been told you’re a diabetic, and the first thing that enters your mind is the possibility of an amputation. Wow, a scary thought! I want to show you how this can happen. As a diabetic you need to hear this, to arm yourself with knowledge. I’m alarmed at how few people truly understand how the process leading to amputation gets started. In some situations it may not be as much of a worry as it should be, and in others it may be far greater than it needs to be.

So here we go! Here are three basic principles that set a foot up for an amputation:

Foot structure

Any type of foot deformity that would create a greater probability of a skin irritation can be problematic. Examples of this would be a bunion. This is that prominence by the big toe joint that you’ll notice when the big toe starts to drift towards the second toe. That bone that protrudes can make it a potential for skin irritation.

A hammertoe would be another example. In this situation the toe is bent so that the knuckle on the top of the toe may rub against shoe gear or the tip may develop a sore, as you tend to walk on the tip and not on the fatty pulp that lies on the opposite side of the toenail. Any of these types of abnormalities should be addressed by appropriate shoe gear or, in some cases, by corrective surgery.

Blood flow

You have probably heard that because of lack of blood flow diabetics have amputations. In my practice experience this appears overrated. Many diabetics have adequate blood flow for healing. I think it’s important if you’re diabetic to really have a thorough exam so you know specifically how you rate. This is a perfect situation of one size doesn’t fit all.

But, obviously, if circulation is an issue then healing of any type of sore or cut may become an issue. One of the worse things you can do is smoke. Obviously the smoking habit has a detrimental effect on circulation, but when you combine it with diabetes, the risk goes up by a factor of at least three times.

Neuropathy

This is what I consider the most dangerous factor: the health of your nerves. Neuropathy will occur in 50-70 percent of diabetics, but how severe it may become varies. Patients may feel a burning tingling and numbness in the feet and legs. The danger, however, is present when more numbness is present. It’s the inability to feel that is dangerous. The good news is that we can help restore the feeling with surgical decompression of selective nerve tunnels using laser and CETS technology to revitalize your nerves. Please refer to our website videos for more information.

Consider this the triad of things to ponder when you’re told you are diabetic and you’re worried about that dreaded word: amputation. The purpose of this blog was not to scare you, but rather give you some peace of mind. You may have more control than you realize, and you need to carefully consider each of these three areas.

First, a few questions you will need to consider are: if you have a deformity does it have to be corrected to reduce risk of amputation in the future, or are there conservative things that may be done? Or, if you have poor blood flow what are steps you can do, and what can a doctor do to help?

Next, if you smoke consider quitting.

Finally, the subject of neuropathy, which to me is most promising! We have surgical and non- surgical options that are backed up with objective research to measure improvement of nerve function. What I consider the most dangerous of the three has the greatest opportunity for help.

So, arming you with knowledge should empower you to consider these factors, and help you to understand you may have more options to avoid amputation.

I hope you better understand that there is more hope than ever for you to do something to preserve those precious feet.

Fact vs. Fiction: Neuropathy

Posted on August 23, 2016July 1, 2025 by admin

Neuropathy is a frustrating, debilitating, painful, and, most discouragingly, a confusing disease. If you or someone you know has neuropathy, chances are they have really struggled with finding accurate knowledge on the subject, and with all the information out there it can be overwhelming deciphering what’s true from what isn’t.

Though neuropathy is a fairly common disease, it is not widely known about. One of the first struggles with neuropathy is getting it properly diagnosed. Also, there are so many thoughts and opinions on neuropathy that you may hear conflicting or even false information. As doctors who specialize in neuropathy and treatments for it, we have compiled a helpful list of fact versus fiction to finally help you better understand your neuropathy.

Neuropathy Facts:

There are a wide variety of symptoms, and not everyone experiences them all.
- The most common symptoms include: muscle weakness, twitching, tingling, loss of balance, numbness, burning, prickling sensations, and/or nerve pain in your legs or feet, and symptoms can vary from one foot to the other.

Neuropathy is progressive.
- This is one of the most important facts to know! Neuropathy will get worse over time, so if you have symptoms do not delay treatment. Some patients wait until their symptoms are more severe before seeking treatment, which can reduce the chance to reverse or alleviate them.

Neuropathy is a fancy word for nerve damage.
- Though it may sound simple, this is exactly what neuropathy is. It’s the disease or dysfunction of one or more peripheral nerves.

There are treatments that can reverse neuropathy symptoms.
- Though many don’t realize this, there are treatment options that have had huge success in reversing, or at the very least improving some people’s neuropathy. These treatments include:
  - MLS Laser Therapy– helps to reduce pain and inflammation and improve nerve function.
  - Electrical Nerve Stimulation (ESTIM)– helps to decrease chronic nerve pain, often done in conjunction with nerve blocks.
  - Nutritional counseling– when done in tangent with MLS and/or ESTIM can help reverse symptoms.
  - Nerve decompressing surgery– opens up the tight nerve tunnel to allow the nerve to function properly, is a viable option for the majority of patients, and offers the very real hope of reversing neuropathy’s effects, allowing you to move with little to no pain or instability.

Neuropathy Fiction:

Neuropathy only affects diabetics.
- Although neuropathy is common in people with diabetes, it is a misconception that it only affects those with it. It can have many other causes including injury, infections, alcoholism, and even certain cancers. There are also unknown (idiopathic) causes

If the pain subsides or goes away, you are getting better.
- False! This is a very dangerous fallacy. When symptoms seem to be getting better they are often actually getting worse, because the later stages of neuropathy can cause numbness making you not feel the pain that is actually there.

I will always have to be on medication.
- Though medications are commonly the first step in treating neuropathy, they typically come with unwanted side effects or are ineffective. What people don’t understand is that by seeking other treatments options like the ones listed above, you can reduce or even get off your medication.

Any doctor can help treat neuropathy.
- Although most doctors know what neuropathy is, they are not all equal in understanding or treating it. Our doctors at Anderson Podiatry Center are members of the Association of Extremity Nerve Surgeons. These national and international physician and PHD members receive specialty training and have a minimum two years’ experience in diagnosing and treating neuropathy. AENS members are committed to disseminating current effective treatment knowledge, and to ongoing research that supports the treatment of extremity nerve disease.

These are just some of the basic misunderstandings on neuropathy. If you suffer from neuropathy come see us today so you can finally get the help you deserve!

Nerve Monitoring in Surgery: Improvements and Results

Posted on August 16, 2016 by admin

nerve pain

I recently was paid a visit by two scientists from the Medtronics medical device company. They came to our office and surgery center to help expand the way I evaluate and monitor improvement of nerve function during the nerve surgeries I do. It was a messy process and frustrating at first, but by the end of the day, and at the end of the week the entire team had a much greater regard for how this was providing better service to patients, and how useful the information we were gathering will be to share with patients suffering from neuropathy and restless legs.

So, what’s all the fuss about nerve monitoring anyway?

What is nerve monitoring?

Intraoperative nerve monitoring is an invaluable technique employed during surgery to gauge the surgery’s impact on the affected nerve in real-time. This sophisticated method involves the placement of small needle electrodes within the target muscle area. These electrodes effectively capture and measure the signals transmitted by the nerve when it is stimulated during the surgical procedure. This allows us to obtain precise baseline readings before the nerve is decompressed or released.

One of the significant advantages of intraoperative nerve monitoring is that it provides the surgeon with immediate feedback regarding the progress of the procedure. By continuously assessing the nerve’s signals during surgery, the surgeon can make real-time adjustments and fine-tune the decompression process. This dynamic approach ensures that the desired outcome, such as relieving nerve compression, is achieved effectively and efficiently. It also enhances the overall safety and success of the surgical intervention.

Why is this important to you, the patient?

Sometimes we are so close to what we do we forget the uniqueness of it, so that’s why I’m writing this blog. Because we do this with every nerve case we perform, we have amassed more experience and data over the past several years than anywhere in the world. We are also the primary center for improving the concept. No other surgery center, hospital, etc. does what we do. Because of this we feel we can better optimize the patient’s outcome.

Value based medicine: the new buzz word. But what is it?

As healthcare progresses in our society this term has increased in importance. It refers to employing evidence-based medicine and proven treatments in determining the best outcomes for patients. When it comes to the nerve procedures we do, there is no other place that does the volume of work we do for as long as we’ve done it by recording our results before the patient leaves the operating room.

Strong statement? Maybe a little, but we also understand the importance of value based medicine, and believe it’s important to demonstrate to the consumer the effectiveness of a given treatment or procedure so the patient can make the best decisions about their care.

So, why use nerve monitoring?

Aside from the above, we have a sincere respect for the nerves of the foot and leg-weird as that may seem. Nerve monitoring has long been used during procedures in the back, face, or neck; it’s about time and lower extremity got the same due!

Neuropathy is our passion, and developing procedures, and testing outcomes is important to further the availability of treatments that actually help people who suffer from this debilitating disease.

At Anderson Podiatry Center, neuropathy is more than just a medical condition; it’s our calling and our passion. Our unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those suffering from this debilitating disease drives us to continually advance our knowledge and treatment options. We firmly believe that developing innovative procedures and rigorously testing their outcomes are essential steps toward expanding the availability of effective neuropathy treatments.

One of our groundbreaking contributions to the field of neuropathy treatment is our pioneering work in nerve monitoring within the lower extremities. This cutting-edge technique has enabled us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in neuropathy care. By meticulously monitoring nerve activity during procedures, we can make real-time adjustments and tailor treatments to the specific needs of each patient.

We invite you to connect with us today to explore the remarkable advancements we’ve made in the realm of neuropathy management. Our dedicated team is eager to share our expertise and insights, ensuring that you receive the most innovative and effective solutions for your neuropathy-related challenges. We are genuinely here to make a meaningful difference in your life and provide the relief you deserve. Together, we can combat neuropathy and work toward a brighter, pain-free future.

nerve monitoring in the lower extremity

3 Essential Books for Understanding and Living with Neuropathy

Posted on August 2, 2016July 1, 2025 by admin

Your legs and feet are one of the most important parts of our body; they carry you everywhere you go. So, naturally, leg and feet issues can greatly disrupt your daily life. This is sadly the case for the many people who suffer from neuropathy– or nerve pain. Neuropathy is painful, frustrating, and debilitating, and with all the information out there it can be overwhelming finding good, accurate sources of information, but it doesn’t have to be.

First of all, you might have neuropathy and not even know it. Some symptoms to look for with neuropathy include muscle weakness, twitching, tingling, burning, loss of balance, numbness, prickling sensations, and/or nerve pain in your legs or feet. Neuropathy can be caused by diabetes, injury, infections, certain cancers, and alcohol, and it is progressive and will worsen over time.

To help you correctly live with and understand your neuropathy we have found three essential books to read:

Sugar Crush: How to Reduce Inflammation, Reverse Nerve Damage, and Reclaim Good Health– by Richard Jacoby, DPM

Even though this book is not solely on neuropathy, it is still an excellent resource for those who suffer from it. Sugar Crush was written by a leading peripheral nerve surgeon. In it he explains why sugar and carbohydrates are harmful to the body’s nerves, and how eliminating them may help mitigate or even reverse nerve damage.

He goes on to describe how a diet high in sugar, processed carbohydrates, and wheat compresses and damages the peripheral nerves of the body. This leads to pain, numbness, and tinging in hands and feet. Sound familiar? These are the same symptoms as neuropathy, which is why this book is a great resource for you!

Coping with Peripheral Neuropathy: How to handle stress, disability, anxiety, fatigue, depression, pain, and relationships– by Scott Berman, MD CIDP

Unfortunately, living with chronic pain and a debilitating disease affects much more than just your physical body. It affects your emotions, causes other problems such as anxiety and depression, and often affects those around you as well.

However, keep in mind that although this book may help you cope with the chronic pain you currently live with, you might not always have to. Just as Sugar Crush discusses, there are possible treatments that may reverse neuropathy symptoms and help stop chronic pain.

Mindfulness Meditation for Pain Relief: Guided Practices for Reclaiming Your Body and Your Life– by Jon Kabat-Zinn

Those who suffer from neuropathy often complain of chronic pain as well. If you live a life shaped by pain, you understand the physical and emotional sufferings that usually accompany it. In this book you can learn how to rely on meditation, rather than solely medication, to ease your pain. Often neuropathy patients complain about all the medications they have to take that don’t always work, and almost always come with unwanted side effects. Here is a great alternative.

According to customer reviews, this book offers meditation techniques for beginners, so anyone can use it and find relief, while also discovering new freedom and improved quality of life. However, same with the above book mentioned, remember that there are treatments for neuropathy that have been able to reverse symptoms for many patients, enabling them to live pain free.

These books are very helpful for living with neuropathy, but they are not your only source of information. Speak to a podiatrist to learn all about your disease, and more importantly how you may be able to reverse your symptoms with promising treatment options.

Diabetic Foot Numbness: The Silent Threat to Your Health and Mobility

Posted on April 26, 2016July 1, 2025 by admin

Understanding Why Numbness is More Dangerous Than Pain

For many of my diabetic patients, numbness develops so gradually they barely notice its progression. The sensation diminishes on such a slow gradient that they forget what normal foot sensitivity feels like. This adaptation becomes dangerous—when you can’t feel your feet, you can’t detect injuries, and if left untreated, these injuries can lead to amputation. The sobering reality is that amputation significantly shortens life expectancy for diabetic patients, with five-year mortality rates approaching 50% after major lower extremity amputation.

A numb foot is the most dangerous foot a diabetic can have.

As a podiatrist who has treated thousands of diabetic patients, I’ve witnessed how early intervention can dramatically change outcomes. Let me share two contrasting patient stories that illustrate why numbness should never be ignored.

Patient Stories of Foot Numbness: Two Different Paths

Patient One: Early Intervention Saves a Foot

Mrs. Johnson (name changed for privacy) visited our clinic with what she described as “feet that were killing her with chronic pain.” She had been taking Lyrica for her diabetic neuropathy, but it provided minimal relief. The burning, tingling pain had become unbearable, affecting her sleep and quality of life.

After a comprehensive evaluation, we discussed treatment options and agreed that nerve decompression surgery would be appropriate for her condition. However, life got busy, and she postponed the procedure. When she returned months later, I noticed the beginning of an ulcer on one toe—a dangerous development that made surgery an immediate priority. I explained how the procedure could not only alleviate her pain but potentially restore sensation, which would prevent future ulcers from developing unnoticed.

The results were remarkable. Almost immediately after surgery, her nerve pain subsided significantly, and she regained sensation in her toes. In her own words, “The foot you operated on feels so much warmer than the other foot.” The toe ulcer healed rapidly, and within weeks, we performed the same procedure on her other foot with equally successful results. Today, Mrs. Johnson has maintained both feet without complications, continues her regular diabetic foot care routine, and enjoys an active lifestyle.

Patient Two: Delayed Intervention Leads to Partial Loss

Mr. Thomas (name changed) had a different perspective on his numbness. To him, it “wasn’t that big a deal.” He could function adequately and sleep well. Yes, the numbness made walking more challenging, but he had adapted. By the time he sought treatment, he had already lost two toes to amputation.

The risk of amputating his foot and having the same issue affect his other foot is what drove him to come to our clinic. We performed nerve decompression surgery on the foot that had already undergone partial amputation. To his satisfaction, the results mirrored those of our first patient—increased warmth and restored sensation. While the surgery was successful in preventing further tissue loss, this case isn’t as positive as the first because permanent damage had already occurred. Had he sought treatment earlier, he might still have all his toes and better mobility.

The Medical Reality of Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy affects approximately 50% of people with diabetes. The condition damages the nerves in your feet by:

Restricting blood flow to the nerves
Creating compression in natural nerve tunnels
Causing biochemical changes that damage nerve fibers

This damage manifests in two primary ways:

Painful neuropathy: Burning, tingling, electrical sensations
Insensate neuropathy: Advancing numbness with decreased ability to feel potential damage

While painful neuropathy is distressing, it typically prompts patients to seek treatment. Numbness, however, often goes untreated until complications arise.

Why Numbness is More Dangerous Than Pain

Consider these contrasting outcomes:

Pain = motivation to seek treatment = nerve restoration = no amputation = more active, healthy life
Numbness = no motivation to seek help = delayed treatment = potential amputation = reduced mobility = shortened lifespan

Research indicates that individuals who undergo lower extremity amputation experience:

Decreased mobility and independence
Higher risk of depression
Increased cardiovascular complications
Reduced life expectancy by 5-10 years

Treatment Options for Diabetic Neuropathy

Modern podiatric medicine offers several approaches to address diabetic neuropathy:

Nerve Decompression Surgery: Releasing compressed nerves to restore blood flow and sensation
Medical Management: Medications to address nerve pain and improve circulation
Advanced Wound Care: Specialized treatment for existing ulcers or injuries
Preventative Foot Care: Regular check-ups and proper footwear
Blood Sugar Control: Working with your primary physician to manage diabetes effectively

How to Assess Your Risk for Numbness due to Diabetic Neuropathy

Ask yourself these questions:

Can you feel a light touch on all areas of your feet?
Do you notice temperature changes on your feet?
Have you noticed any changes in foot color or unexplained calluses?
Do your feet feel unusually cold or warm?
Have you had any painless injuries on your feet?

If you answered “no” to the first two questions or “yes” to the others, you should consult with a podiatrist specialized in diabetic foot care immediately.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

The choice becomes clear when you consider the options: either surgery to remove part of your foot after damage occurs, or proactive treatment to restore nerve function and preserve your foot. This crucial message needs to reach more diabetic patients before complications develop.
Remember, while you may not be able to control the development of neuropathy, you can control the outcome through early intervention.

Take Action Today

If you’re experiencing any signs of diabetic neuropathy—whether painful symptoms or concerning numbness—schedule a comprehensive foot evaluation with our team at Anderson Podiatry Center. Early intervention is your best defense against the silent threat of diabetic foot numbness.

Call us today at our Fort Collins location (970) 484-4620, Broomfield location (720) 259-5053 or use our online scheduling system to book your appointment.

Dr. James Anderson, DPM, is a board-certified podiatrist specializing in diabetic foot care and nerve decompression surgery with over [X] years of experience helping patients maintain foot health and mobility.