Diabetes is a chronic condition that impacts the body’s ability to manage blood sugar levels. What many patients don’t realize is that diabetes also has a profound effect on foot health. At Capital Foot Care, we are committed to educating patients about the connection between diabetes and foot complications, and providing expert care to help prevent serious outcomes.
When blood sugar levels are poorly controlled over time, it can lead to two major problems affecting the feet: peripheral neuropathy and poor circulation. Peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves in the feet become damaged, often resulting in numbness, tingling, burning, or loss of sensation. This means that small injuries or infections can go unnoticed until they develop into serious ulcers or wounds.
Poor circulation, also known as Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), limits blood flow to the extremities. Without proper circulation, even minor foot injuries may heal slowly, increasing the risk of infection or even amputation. For individuals with diabetes, regular foot examinations by a qualified podiatrist are not just helpful—they are essential.
At Capital Foot Care, we specialize in comprehensive diabetic foot care designed to prevent complications before they start. Our experienced providers—Dr. Muhammad A. Khalid, DPM, Dr. Fritz-Andre Duterlein, and Dr. Herman Zarate—bring decades of combined experience in podiatric medicine and diabetic care. We understand the unique risks diabetic patients face, and our goal is to help you protect your feet for life.
One of the most important tools in managing diabetic foot health is the routine foot exam. Our team carefully evaluates your feet for signs of neuropathy, skin changes, ulcers, infection, and circulatory issues. Early detection allows for timely interventions that can prevent small problems from escalating into major health concerns.
We also offer advanced wound care for patients with existing foot ulcers or slow-healing wounds. Using modern techniques such as debridement, specialized dressings, and offloading strategies, we help accelerate healing and reduce the risk of infection. In cases where surgical care is needed, our in-office surgical services provide safe, effective treatment options without a hospital stay.
Another cornerstone of our practice is PAD management. Diabetic patients are at increased risk of this condition, which narrows arteries and restricts blood flow. If you’re experiencing leg pain, cramping, or foot wounds that won’t heal, it may be a sign of PAD. We offer non-invasive testing and customized treatment plans to help restore proper circulation and support foot health.
In addition to managing foot conditions, we believe in empowering our patients through education. Simple daily habits such as inspecting your feet, wearing well-fitting shoes, and controlling blood sugar levels can make a significant difference in preventing complications.
At Capital Foot Care, your foot health is our top priority. With convenient office locations in Riverdale, Takoma Park, Largo, and Southeast Washington, DC, we make expert care accessible to patients across the region. Whether you’re newly diagnosed with diabetes or have been managing it for years, it’s never too early—or too late—to prioritize your foot health.
If you’re living with diabetes and want to take a proactive approach to foot care, call Capital Foot Care today at 301-927-FOOT (3668) or email [email protected] to schedule an appointment.
Your feet carry you through life—make sure they get the care they deserve.