The patient is examined with regard to these areas, and fully informed of what is occurring with his or her feet during each visit. Custom shoes, insoles and devices can be constructed for diabetics in order to relieve pressure and pain to abnormal sensitive sites on the feet. Diabetics can have elective podiatric surgery in many cases, as long as the diabetes is under control and the circulation status is excellent. However, any abnormality for the diabetic, such as infection, laceration, or manifestations of a foreign object in the foot are treated as emergencies, and diabetic patients are instructed to contact our offices immediately for treatment of these areas of difficulty. Paleness or bluishness of the toes and decrease of circulation.
Black skin is a sign of dead tissue, and redness with streaks is often a sign of infection.
Abnormal swelling may be the result of poor circulation or swelling. Other symptoms are extreme tenderness and increase in foot size. These would include extra-warm areas, which may mean that an infection has started. Extra coolness may mean a general decrease of circulation, and that the patient is not getting enough blood flow. Various red hot spots are caused by friction or pressure.