Diabetic Foot Care in Wheeling, IL
Diabetic Foot Care
Understand Diabetic
Foot Care
Diabetes can quietly affect circulation and nerves in your feet—raising the risk of wounds, infections, and, in severe cases, amputation. With regular exams, early treatment, and the right footwear and support, most problems are preventable. At Foot Clinic, Dr. Anthony Spitz provides proactive, comprehensive care to keep you moving safely.
How Diabetes Affects Your Feet
- Poor Circulation (PAD): Less blood flow slows healing and increases ulcer risk.
- Peripheral Neuropathy: Numbness/tingling can hide cuts or blisters until they worsen.
- Higher Infection Risk: Elevated glucose impairs immune response and wound repair.
Without preventive care, many patients develop ulcers; infected ulcers can lead to serious complications. Regular care dramatically reduces that risk.
Warning Signs to Watch
- New cuts, blisters, or calluses that don’t heal in a few days
- Redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage (possible infection)
- Color changes, cold feet, or cramping when walking (possible PAD)
- Burning, tingling, or numbness (neuropathy symptoms)
Urgent: If you see spreading redness, fever, foul odor, or a deep/black wound, call us immediately.
At-Home Care
Essentials
- Daily Checks: Inspect soles, heels, and between toes; use a mirror if needed.
- Hygiene: Wash, dry thoroughly (especially between toes), moisturize tops/soles (not between toes).
- Nail Care: Trim straight across; avoid digging into corners.
- Footwear: Cushioned, well-fitting shoes; never go barefoot—even at home.
- Blood Sugar: Keep levels in target range to support healing.
- When to Call: Any nonhealing spot or sign of infection.
Diagnosis & Risk Assessment
- Medical history and medication review
- Neuropathy testing: monofilament/vibration exams
- Vascular screening: pulses, ABI, or referral for vascular studies
- Gait/pressure analysis and shoe wear review
- Ulcer staging (if present) and imaging when indicated
Treatment Options
Wound & Ulcer Care
- Debridement: Removes dead tissue to jump-start healing
- Infection Control: Culture-guided antibiotics; advanced dressings
- Offloading: Total contact cast, CAM boot, or custom devices to relieve pressure
- Edema & PAD Management: Compression when appropriate; prompt vascular referrals
Advanced/Adjunctive Therapies (as needed)
- Biologic dressings or grafts
- Regenerative options (e.g., PRP) when appropriate
- Coordinated care with endocrinology/vascular surgery
Prevention & Protection
- Custom Orthotics & Diabetic Shoes: Redistribute pressure and reduce friction points
- Callus & Nail Care: Professional trimming to prevent breaks in skin
- Skin Care Protocols: Moisturizers, barrier creams; education on daily routines
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any more questions, please reach out to us, we will gladly help you.
How often should I have a foot exam?
At least once a year—or more often if you have neuropathy, PAD, or a history of ulcers.
What shoes are best?
Roomy, cushioned shoes with a wide toe box; we prescribe diabetic footwear and inserts when indicated.
Can ulcers really be prevented?
Most can—through daily checks, good glucose control, protective footwear, and prompt treatment of hot spots.
Do you treat infected ulcers?
Yes. We offer urgent evaluation, debridement, culture-guided antibiotics, and coordinated specialty care.
Get in Touch with Foot Clinic
Ready to Step into Comfort?
Dr. Spitz and our caring staff are committed to resolving your foot and ankle concerns with precision and empathy. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries, or cosmetic foot issues, our practice combines the latest minimally invasive techniques with an unwavering focus on patient well-being.
Hello, there! We’ll be glad to here from you.
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Monday — 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Tuesday — 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday — Closed
Thursday — 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday — 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Saturday — (Every Other) 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Sunday — Closed
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