For individuals living with diabetes, foot care should never be an afterthought. One of the most serious and common complications of diabetes is foot infection. Due to reduced circulation and nerve damage (neuropathy), diabetic patients are more likely to experience wounds or ulcers that go unnoticed—and these wounds can quickly become infected. Left untreated, diabetic foot infections can lead to hospitalization, surgery, or even amputation.
At Capital Foot Care, we specialize in the early detection, treatment, and long-term management of diabetic foot infections. Our skilled team—Dr. Muhammad A. Khalid, DPM, Dr. Fritz-Andre Duterlein, and Dr. Herman Zarate—is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive care for every patient. With state-of-the-art facilities across Riverdale, Takoma Park, Largo, and Washington, D.C., expert help is always within reach.
Why Diabetics Are at Greater Risk for Foot Infections
High blood sugar levels over time can damage blood vessels and nerves. This leads to poor circulation and loss of sensation, especially in the feet. When you can’t feel pain, small cuts, scrapes, or pressure injuries may go unnoticed and untreated. Combined with decreased immune response, this creates the perfect environment for infection to set in.
Symptoms of a diabetic foot infection may include:
- Redness, warmth, or swelling around a wound
- Foul odor or drainage from the foot
- Increased pain or tenderness
- Fever or chills in more advanced cases
- Black or discolored tissue (possible gangrene)
If any of these signs are present, immediate podiatric care is essential.
What to Expect During Treatment
At Capital Foot Care, treating a diabetic foot infection begins with a thorough evaluation. We assess the severity of the infection, determine whether underlying bone or tissue is involved, and identify any contributing factors such as pressure points or improperly fitting footwear.
Here’s what our patients can expect from their treatment journey:
- Wound Debridement:
Removal of dead or infected tissue is often the first step in promoting healing. This helps reduce bacterial load and allows healthy tissue to regenerate. - Infection Management:
Depending on the severity, patients may be prescribed oral or intravenous antibiotics. Our doctors will closely monitor the infection’s response to treatment and adjust medications as needed. - Advanced Wound Care:
We apply specialized dressings designed to keep the wound moist and protected while accelerating healing. In some cases, skin grafts or biologic treatments may be considered. - Offloading Techniques:
To prevent pressure on the infected area, we may recommend custom orthotics, diabetic shoes, or offloading boots. Reducing weight on the affected area gives the wound a better chance to heal. - Circulatory Assessment:
Because blood flow plays a crucial role in healing, we evaluate for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) and, if necessary, initiate treatment to improve circulation to the foot.
Preventing Recurrence
Once an infection is treated, prevention becomes the next priority. Our diabetic foot care program includes:
- Routine Foot Exams to monitor for early signs of breakdown or infection
- Nail and Skin Care to prevent ingrown nails, fungal infections, and callus buildup
- Patient Education on daily foot inspection and hygiene
- Proper Footwear Guidance to avoid pressure injuries and trauma
Our Services at Capital Foot Care
Our team offers a complete suite of podiatric services designed specifically for high-risk patients, including:
- Diabetic Foot Care
- Advanced Wound Care
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Treatment
- In-Office Surgery for infected nails, abscesses, or tissue debridement
- Routine Foot Maintenance
- Sports Medicine and injury recovery
With five convenient locations, we make it easy for patients across the D.C. and Maryland areas to access the care they need:
📍 Riverdale, MD – 6510 Kenilworth Ave. Suite 2300
📍 Takoma Park, MD – 7610 Carroll Ave. Suite 380
📍 Largo, MD – 8816 Jericho City Drive
📍 Washington, D.C. – 2041 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE, Suite 103
📍 Washington, D.C. – 1328 Southern Ave SE, Suite 209
Choose Expert Care. Choose Capital Foot Care.
Diabetic foot infections are serious, but with early intervention and expert care, they are manageable. At Capital Foot Care, our experienced podiatrists are committed to helping patients recover from infections, prevent future wounds, and maintain healthy, pain-free feet.
📞 Call us at 301-927-FOOT (3668)
📧 Email: [email protected]
Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse—schedule your visit today and take a confident step toward better foot health.
