Diabetes Specialist
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Henry Tseng, DPM
Podiatrist located in West Covina, CA & Alhambra, CA
Because diabetes often leads to nerve damage that causes numbness, as well as slow-healing wounds, ongoing diabetic foot care is important. Board-certified podiatrist Henry Tseng, DPM, provides personalized care for diabetic patients at his private practice, Dr. Henry Tseng, located in West Covina and Alhambra, California. Click the online scheduler to book your diabetes exam or call either location to book.
Diabetes
Why do I need to see a podiatrist for diabetes?
A diagnosis of diabetes means that your body doesn’t metabolize blood sugar (glucose) properly. As a result, you’re subject to frequent blood sugar spikes that can reduce blood circulation and damage nerves. Skin cells wind up being deprived of the essential oxygen and nutrients they need to thrive, particularly in your lower extremities where blood flow is already limited.
This leads to drier-than-normal skin, which can leave you prone to developing cuts, scratches, and cracks in your skin. Plus, with the related nerve damage, you might not even feel that you have wounds on your feet.
Without proper treatment, seemingly minor wounds can quickly progress, become infected, and ultimately lead to a serious diabetic foot ulcer. This is why diabetics have such high risks for amputations.
When should I see a podiatrist if I have diabetes?
Preventive podiatric care is essential when you have diabetes. Dr. Tseng typically likes to evaluate you about once or twice a year. Outside of these routine foot and ankle exams, it’s imperative that you have an evaluation if you notice any of the following issues in your feet and ankles:
- Corns or calluses
- Changes in skin color
- Drainage in your socks
- Swelling or inflammation
- Changes in skin temperature
- Open wounds that aren’t healing
- Pain or tenderness at rest or while walking
These issues can increase your risk of developing serious foot ulcers, or even could be caused by an unknown wound or infection.
What happens during a diabetes exam at the podiatrist?
Dr. Tseng understands how critical thorough podiatric care is for his diabetic patients. He spends time examining your feet and ankles and talking with you about any symptoms you may be experiencing. During your diabetic foot care exam at Dr. Henry Tseng, you may need:
- Custom orthotics fitting
- Corn or callus removal
- Wound debridement
- Toenail trimming
- Acupuncture
Dr. Tseng also counsels you on proper foot care when you have diabetes and educates you on lifestyle changes you can make to keep your feet and ankles healthy.
Don’t hesitate another day to contact the office of Dr. Henry Tseng for your diabetic foot care exam. You can conveniently book your diabetes appointment either online or over the phone.
