Your foot care team
You are the key person in your foot care team. It is important for you to check your feet every day for any changes or signs of injury. If you are unable to do this on your own, arrange to have someone else check your feet every day. If you notice a change, see a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
Do not second guess yourself or feel that the change is too small to seek medical attention. Left untreated, small injuries or changes can become very serious and lead to complications and possibly amputation.
When calling the healthcare professional’s office, inform the person answering the phone that you have diabetes and noticed a change on your foot. Describe what you see on your foot.
Your family and friends are also an important part of your care. They can offer you support and help you take care of your feet if you are unable to do so on your own. Build your comfort level in asking others for help when you need it.
Aside from you, your family and your friends, there are a variety of healthcare professionals involved in keeping your feet healthy.
- Chiropodists or Podiatrists: specialize in treating foot diseases, disorders and dysfunctions
- Diabetes Educators: provide education on diabetes, including foot care
- Doctors: assist in diabetes management, and some have specialized training in foot care
- Endocrinologists: treat concerns of the endocrine system, including diabetes
- Neurologists: specialize in caring for nerve-related concerns
- Nurses: some have special training in foot care
- Orthotists / Prosthetists: specialize in orthotic and prosthetic devices
- Pedorthists: specialize in orthotics, footwear and footwear modifications
- Registered Dietitians/Nutritionists: provide information about proper food habits
- Specialists: In addition to the above, your doctor may also refer you to another specialist.
Key Contacts
Print this list and fill in the contact information for your key healthcare professionals.
Chiropodist or podiatrist
Diabetes Educator
Doctor
Endocrinologist
Neurologist
Nurse
Pedorthist
Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist
Specialist