Plano Diabetic Patients: How Yearly Podiatry Exams Protect Your Health

Diabetes mellitus is a systemic condition that can profoundly affect the lower extremities. For patients in Plano, TX, routine foot care is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious complications such as ulceration, infection, and even lower-limb amputation. At Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists, our podiatrists stress the importance of at least one annual diabetic foot exam, and in many cases, more frequent follow-up is warranted depending on risk factors.

How Diabetes Affects Foot Health

Several physiological changes associated with diabetes increase the risk of foot complications:

1. Peripheral Neuropathy

Chronic hyperglycemia damages the peripheral nerves over time, resulting in loss of protective sensation. This means patients may not feel minor injuries, cuts, or blisters. Without pain as a warning sign, wounds can progress rapidly.

2. Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)

Diabetes accelerates atherosclerosis, leading to narrowing of the peripheral arteries. Reduced blood flow impairs oxygen delivery and nutrient supply to tissues, which slows healing and makes the foot more vulnerable to infection and gangrene.

3. Impaired Immunity

High glucose levels interfere with normal white blood cell function, diminishing the body’s ability to fight infection. Even minor skin breakdown can become a serious infection if not treated promptly.

4. Structural Foot Changes

Patients with neuropathy may develop altered biomechanics, leading to Charcot neuroarthropathy—a destructive condition causing foot deformity, collapse of the arch, and abnormal pressure points that increase ulcer risk.

5. Dermatologic and Nail Disorders

Thickened toenails, onychomycosis (fungal nails), calluses, and dry skin are not merely cosmetic issues in diabetic patients. Each represents a potential portal of entry for bacteria.

Why Annual Podiatric Exams Are Essential

Comprehensive Risk Assessment

An annual diabetic foot exam goes beyond a visual inspection. At Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists, we perform:

• Neurological testing (monofilament, vibration, tuning fork) to detect loss of protective sensation.

• Vascular testing (palpation of pulses, ABI, or Doppler studies) to assess blood flow.

• Dermatologic evaluation for skin integrity, fungal infections, or pre-ulcerative lesions.

• Musculoskeletal assessment for deformities, limited joint mobility, or signs of Charcot foot.

Early Intervention Saves Limbs

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), regular foot care can reduce the risk of ulceration and amputation by up to 85%. Identifying changes such as diminished sensation, poor circulation, or early skin breakdown allows for interventions that prevent progression.

Safe Nail and Skin Care

Because of impaired sensation and circulation, routine tasks like trimming nails or removing calluses can be risky for diabetic patients. Podiatrists ensure that these are managed safely, reducing the likelihood of accidental cuts and infections.

Pressure Redistribution

If a patient has high-risk areas or deformities, podiatrists may prescribe custom diabetic footwear or orthotics to redistribute pressure and prevent ulcer formation.

Who Needs More Frequent Visits?

While annual exams are recommended for all diabetic patients, some require closer monitoring. These include patients with:

• Previous history of foot ulcer or amputation

• Advanced neuropathy with complete loss of protective sensation

• Peripheral arterial disease or critical limb ischemia

• Significant foot deformities (bunion, hammertoes, Charcot foot)

• End-stage renal disease or other advanced complications of diabetes

For these patients, quarterly exams may be necessary.

Protecting Diabetic Foot Health in Plano, TX

Diabetic foot complications are common, costly, and potentially life-altering—but they are also highly preventable. The cornerstone of prevention is early detection through podiatric evaluation. At Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists in Plano, TX, our team provides comprehensive diabetic foot exams, advanced wound care, vascular testing, and individualized preventive care.

Take Action Today

If you have diabetes, don’t wait until you notice a sore or infection. Preventive care is the most effective treatment. Schedule your annual diabetic foot exam with Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists in Plano, TX and protect your mobility and long-term health. Contact our office today with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking an appointment online.