Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy and Its Impact on Podiatry

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the peripheral nerves, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and feet. This disorder is particularly relevant to podiatry, as it commonly affects the lower extremities, posing significant challenges to foot health and mobility.

For podiatrists, diagnosing and managing peripheral neuropathy is crucial in providing comprehensive foot care, especially in patients with underlying conditions like diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy, a specific form of peripheral neuropathy, is prevalent among individuals with diabetes and can lead to serious complications if left unaddressed.

Podiatrists play a vital role in the management of peripheral neuropathy. They conduct thorough assessments to evaluate nerve function and sensation in the feet, helping to identify early signs of neuropathy. Regular foot examinations are recommended for individuals with diabetes to detect any abnormalities promptly.

In the realm of podiatry, treatment strategies for peripheral neuropathy primarily focus on symptom relief, injury prevention, and preserving foot function. Custom orthotics, footwear modifications, and physical therapy can all aid in improving balance, reducing pain, and enhancing overall mobility.

Furthermore, podiatrists collaborate closely with diabetologists in managing diabetic neuropathy. By working together, these healthcare professionals can address both the foot-related complications and the systemic factors contributing to peripheral neuropathy. A multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care, optimizing patient outcomes and quality of life.

In conclusion, peripheral neuropathy significantly impacts podiatry, particularly in relation to diabetic foot care. Podiatrists, in collaboration with diabetologists, play a vital role in diagnosing, managing, and preventing complications associated with peripheral neuropathy. By addressing the foot-related issues and working alongside other healthcare providers, podiatrists help improve the overall well-being of individuals with neuropathy, promoting mobility and reducing the risk of further complications.

Effective Diabetes Management: The Role of Diabetologists

Diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels, affects millions of people worldwide. Managing diabetes requires a comprehensive approach involving various healthcare professionals, with diabetologists playing a crucial role in ensuring effective disease management.

Diabetologists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diabetes. Their expertise and knowledge in this field make them essential partners in providing comprehensive care to individuals with diabetes.

One of the primary responsibilities of diabetologists is to establish an accurate diagnosis and assess the type and severity of diabetes. They consider various factors such as blood sugar levels, medical history, and physical examinations to determine the appropriate treatment plan for each patient.

Diabetologists are experts in prescribing and adjusting diabetes medications, including insulin therapy. They closely monitor blood glucose levels, ensuring that they are within the target range to prevent complications associated with high or low blood sugar.

Furthermore, diabetologists play a vital role in educating patients about diabetes self-management. They provide guidance on healthy eating, physical activity, glucose monitoring, and medication adherence. Patient education empowers individuals to actively participate in their own care, promoting better control over their diabetes.

Diabetologists also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as podiatrists, to address specific complications related to diabetes. For instance, they work together to manage diabetic neuropathy, foot ulcers, and other foot-related issues commonly associated with the disease.

In conclusion, diabetologists are key players in the management of diabetes. Their expertise in diagnosis, treatment, and education enables individuals with diabetes to lead healthier lives. By working in collaboration with other healthcare providers, diabetologists ensure a comprehensive approach to diabetes care, aiming to prevent complications and improve overall patient outcomes.

Diabetic Foot Infection: An Essential Aspect of Diabetes Care

Diabetic foot infection is a critical complication that affects individuals with diabetes and demands immediate attention. As diabetes management requires a comprehensive approach, the Indian Podiatry Association and experts like Dr. A. P. S. Suri play a vital role in preventing and treating these infections effectively.

The Importance of Diabetes Care : Diabetes care encompasses various aspects to ensure optimal health outcomes for individuals living with this condition. Among the many complications, diabetic foot infection poses a significant threat. It arises from poor blood circulation, neuropathy, and weakened immune responses associated with diabetes. Timely intervention and comprehensive management strategies are crucial to avoid severe consequences such as ulcers, gangrene, and even amputations.

Indian Podiatry Association’s Role : The Indian Podiatry Association (IPA) serves as a leading organization in promoting foot health and preventing diabetic foot complications. The IPA focuses on education, awareness, and skill development for healthcare professionals and patients alike. Their efforts involve regular seminars, workshops, and publications to disseminate knowledge on foot care and diabetes management. By collaborating with experts like Dr. A. P. S. Suri, who specializes in podiatry, the IPA ensures comprehensive diabetic foot care and effective treatment protocols.

Dr. A. P. S. Suri’s Expertise : Dr. A. P. S. Suri is a renowned podiatrist specializing in diabetic foot care and management. With years of experience and expertise, Dr. Suri has dedicated his practice to helping individuals with diabetes prevent and treat foot complications. His multidisciplinary approach, combining medical knowledge with advanced podiatric techniques, ensures comprehensive care for patients with diabetic foot infections.

Conclusion : Diabetic foot infections are a serious concern within the realm of diabetes care. Through the collaborative efforts of organizations like the Indian Podiatry Association and experts like Dr. A. P. S. Suri, effective strategies for preventing, diagnosing, and treating these infections can be implemented. By prioritizing foot health and diabetic management, we can reduce the risk of complications and improve the overall well-being of individuals with diabetes.

Dr. A P S Suri received the prestigious Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Inspirational Award presented at Vigyan Bhawan

Dr. A P S Suri received  the prestigious  Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Inspirational Award presented at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi for his pioneering work in Diabetic Foot for the past two decades. The significant award was handed over by world-renowned boxer Ms. M.C. Mary Kom.

Dr. A P S Suri’s exceptional contributions in the field of Diabetic Foot were recognized and celebrated during the event. His groundbreaking research and dedication have positively impacted countless lives across the nation.

In addition, Dr. A P S Suri had the privilege to address the IPA (Indian Podiatry Association) activities and shed light on the remarkable work being carried out by IPA chapters all over India. The IPA continues to make significant strides in raising awareness about foot health and providing specialized care to individuals suffering from diabetes.

This recognition highlights the importance of Diabetic Foot management and reinforces the need for increased efforts in this critical area of healthcare. Congratulations to Dr. A P S Suri on this well-deserved honor!

DIABETIC FOOT CAN BE PREVENTABLE

One of the most important complication and scourge of diabetes is the involvement of lower limbs with Vasculopathy (Peripheral Vascular Disease), Peripheral Nerve Disease (Diabetic Neuropathy), Bone Disease and Infections especially in making diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) to foot amputations. Diabetic Foot care is an essential part of limb preservation as most foot problems are preventable through early identification and prompt treatment by skilled health professionals. Diabetic foot managers are combination of Physicians, Surgeons, Podiatrists and Ped-orthotists.

Among people living with Diabetes mellitus 20% are addressed for foot ulceration as a result of peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage), peripheral vascular disease (Blood vessel damage) or both with different presentations.

Knowledge of practice regarding different aspects of care regarding diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) reduces risk of diabetic foot complications and ultimately our Goal – Save Amputations.

Diabetic foot is a Public Health issue and global diabetic foot ulcer prevalence is 6.3% , pertinent to have knowledge about diabetes and foot ulcer prevention and should be promoted both in the community and health personal to reduce DFU complications.

The knowledge of Stratification of services which should be from no risk to high risk which means normal foot to ulcer to gangrene to amputations with modifiable factors and multidisciplinary services, foot ulcers are the most preventable ones.

Foot ulcers and amputations are the major causes morbidity, disability and emotional trauma with economy class. 20% diabetics will get foot problems. More than 50% of the patients undergoing amputations in India are diabetic which are preventable.

A trivial injury in the foot of an uncontrolled with long duration of diabetes may have

components of neuropathy, vasculopathy and Infection will lead to diabetic foot ulcer.

Common neuropathic signs & symptoms are Paresthesia, Hyperesthesia, Hypoesthesia, Radicular pains, burning sensations, sensation of pins and needles to “no” symptoms may lead to callus formation over pressure points. Ultimately changes the shape of the foot in form of Hammer toes, Pas caves, loss of planter arch and Charcot’s foot.

Symptoms of vasculopathy will produce intermittent claudication, cold feet, nocturnal pain, rest pain, pain relived with dependency, absent pulses, blanching on elevation, atrophy of subcutaneous fat, shiny appearance of skin, loss of hair on foot and toes, thickened nails and ultimately Gangrene.

Patients of long-standing duration of diabetes may present with any of the above sign and symptoms or no symptoms even with a trivial injury like shoe bite, hoer surgery, Rat/Insect Bites, Thermal Injury, Foreign Body Injury, Chemical Injury and vigorous massage may lead the patent to diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). Now to manage this diabetic foot ulcer (DFU), basic requirement is to control glycaemia, wound dressings, adequate therapeutic foot wear, debridement if necessary with antibiotic cover are the hall marks of management.

On the holistic approach we must consider systemic and local factors like Hypertension, CAD, Hyperlipidemia and Renal Insufficiency.

Long standing diabetes must be looked for diabetic neuropathy with motor sensory and autonomic changes. Peripheral arterial disease (vasculopathy) should be evaluated for Ischemia. Joint mobility any orthopedics problems, Charcot arthropathy, infection which may ultimately are the causes of ulceration.

Other risk factors like smoking, alcoholism and genetic predisposition also makes a difference

in outcomes.

Diabetic foot lesions are usually missed because of lack of awareness amongst diabetic

patients, because of sensory loss produces silent and painless ulcers.

Saving a diabetic foot needs regular foot inspection, prompt treatment of foot ulcers, Correction of vascular risk factors, good glycemic control, team work among medical personnel and patient education and patient involvement in the treatment.

Diabetic foot ulceration should be given parenteral antibiotics with compression stockings and bandages to reduce edema with aggressive glycemic control. Do not withhold antibiotics until the results of cultures are available. We should rely on our clinical judgment.

Antibiotic treatment is essential aspect of treating infected diabetic foot ulcers – ulcer must be regularly monitored. Depending on clinical response, frequent changes and long-term antibiotics may be required.

Dressing should be done by a trained person or treating doctor, strong solution like hydrogen peroxide, iodine, spirit should not be applied to the wound, sterile dressing material should be covered with six inches elastocrepe to prevent venous and lymphatic edema. The wound should not be must immersed in water. “Eusol Bath” which has no place in modern diabetic therapy, loose slough should be excised at the time of dressing with sterile scissors. Commonly used dressing material in diabetic foot lesion is dilute povidone iodine, hydrocolloid gel, dilute Savlon, Sterile Saline, Collagenase Ointment for loosening the adherent slough. Local antibiotic ointments are used in selected cases, metronidazole gel is useful in local anerobic infections, seven seas oil (fish oil) is used for dressings in diabetic foot lesions with poor blood supply. The oil acts as a local free radical scavenger enhancing local oxygen perfusion, use of talcum powder or any other in between the toes should be avoided. Moisturizers can be used fungal infection in between should be ruled out.

Reducing foot pressure in DFU is of utmost important with early diagnosis Charcot’s foot, treatment calluses, corrective foot wear with strictly non weight bearing walk. Wear shoes with good support, shoes with good arch support and cushioning to reduce pressure on feet avoid high heals or shoes with pointed toes as they cause unnecessary pressure on certain areas on your feet. Regular treatment of calluses, pressure source or even blisters. Keep your feet clean and dry. Wash your feet daily with mild soap and warm water, and dry them carefully, and specially between the toes. Moisturize your feet with a good moisturizer and avoid putting lotion between your toes. Get regular foot checkups with doctor or podiatrist regularly.

Specific foot wear should be individualize as needs of the patient. Patient participation in the management of diabetic foot lesions in very important. The routine foot care is vitally important to prevent the complications in diabetic foot lesions. The primary physician should instruct and encourage the patients to follow daily foot care. Do not walk barefoot. Walking barefoot increase the risk of injury. Remember that intact skin is the best protection. Do not do hot fermentation cold compresses or electric heater. This can cause burns or frostbite due to loss of protective sensation. Apply linolients like coconut oil, plain petroleum jelly to both the feet daily. Effective patient education can reduce the incidents of foot ulceration and amputation by over 50%. Certain foot deformities reduced, skin oxygenation and foot perfusion, poor vision, greater body mass and both sensory and autonomic neuropathy independently influence foot ulcer risk, thereby providing support for a multifactorial etiology for diabetic foot ulceration.

It is important to know that medication for hyper glycemia should be instituted as early as possible for control with level of fasting, post prandial sugars and glycosylated hemoglobin according to the WHO guidelines. Long-acting oral hypo glycemic agents plays a very important role which produces less glucose variability. Insulin should be initiated and optimize for better outcomes in moderate to severe infections and with other co-morbid conditions like coronary artery diseases (CAD), Hypertension and Chronic Kidney Disease.

What is Podiatry Care?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that can lead to a range of complications, including foot problems. High blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage and poor circulation, leading to foot problems such as infections, ulcers, and amputations. However, with proper foot care, these complications can be prevented or managed. Dr. AP S Suri, a podiatrist with over 30 years of experience, has been helping diabetics live better through his remarkable procedures and care.

Dr. Suri is a leading expert in the field of podiatry, which focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle disorders. He has been working to raise awareness about the importance of foot health and to provide high-quality care to patients with foot problems.

One of the most remarkable procedures that Dr. Suri performs is diabetic foot surgery. This procedure is designed to address foot problems in diabetics, such as ulcers or infections, that cannot be managed through other treatments. Dr. Suri uses a range of surgical techniques, including skin grafts and wound closure, to restore the foot’s function and appearance.

In addition to surgical procedures, Dr. Suri also provides comprehensive foot care to diabetics. This includes regular foot exams, monitoring blood sugar levels, and providing guidance on proper foot care. Dr. Suri works closely with his patients to develop individualized treatment plans that meet their specific needs and goals.

Dr. Suri’s care has been life-changing for many diabetics. Patients have reported significant improvements in their quality of life, including increased mobility and decreased pain. Dr. Suri’s focus on education and prevention has also helped many diabetics avoid foot problems altogether.

In conclusion, Dr. AP S Suri’s remarkable procedures and care have been helping diabetics live better lives. Through his expertise in podiatry, including diabetic foot surgery and comprehensive foot care, Dr. Suri has been able to prevent and manage foot problems in diabetics, improving their overall health and well-being. Dr. Suri’s work is a testament to the importance of proper foot care in the management of diabetes, and his dedication to his patients is truly remarkable.

Why Foot Care in Diabetes?

Diabetic foot care is a crucial aspect of managing diabetes, a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. High blood sugar levels in people with diabetes can lead to nerve damage and poor circulation, which can cause foot problems that, if left untreated, can result in serious health complications. Proper foot care can help prevent these complications.

The first step in diabetic foot care is to monitor blood sugar levels and maintain them within a target range. It is also important to inspect the feet daily for cuts, sores, or blisters. Any signs of infection should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.

Keeping the feet clean and dry is also important. Feet should be washed daily with mild soap and warm water, dried thoroughly, and moisturized with a non-alcoholic lotion. Shoes should fit properly and be comfortable. They should be checked for any foreign objects before putting them on.

Regular exercise can also help improve circulation and prevent foot problems. However, people with diabetes should consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program.

It is also important to have regular foot exams by a healthcare provider. They can check for any signs of nerve damage or poor circulation and provide guidance on proper foot care.

In conclusion, proper diabetic foot care is essential to prevent serious health complications. By monitoring blood sugar levels, inspecting the feet daily, keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing proper footwear, and having regular foot exams, people with diabetes can help prevent foot problems and maintain their overall health.

CHANGING LIFE OF PATIENTS – INDIAN PODIATRY ASSOCIATION

The Indian Podiatry Association (IPA) is a professional organization dedicated to promoting the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of foot and ankle disorders in India. The IPA is headed by Dr. AP S Suri, a renowned podiatrist with more than 30 years of experience in the field. Dr. Suri has been instrumental in changing the lives of many patients through his work with the IPA.

Podiatry is a branch of medicine that focuses on the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. Foot problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, injury, and lifestyle. Foot problems can be debilitating and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

The IPA, under the leadership of Dr. Suri, has been working to raise awareness about foot health and to improve the quality of care available to patients with foot problems. The IPA has been conducting seminars and workshops across the country to educate people about the importance of foot health and to train healthcare professionals in the field of podiatry.

Dr. Suri has been at the forefront of this effort, working tirelessly to promote the importance of foot health and to develop new treatments for foot problems. He has been involved in the development of new surgical techniques and has been working to improve the quality of care available to patients with foot problems.

To make the vision of preventing amputation of limbs by bringing quality foot care for patients of diabetes, Dr. Suri successfully build a nationwide network of doctors across 17 states by opening IPA regional chapters . The mission of IPA is “I Prevent Amputation ”

The IPA has also been working to provide access to affordable foot care services to people in need. The organization has been working with government agencies and other organizations to provide free foot screenings and treatment to underserved communities.

The work of the IPA and Dr. Suri has had a significant impact on the lives of many people in India. Patients who have received treatment through the IPA have reported significant improvements in their quality of life, including increased mobility and decreased pain.

In conclusion, the Indian Podiatry Association, under the leadership of Dr. AP S Suri, has been working to improve the lives of patients with foot problems in India. Through their efforts to raise awareness about foot health, provide access to affordable foot care services, and develop new treatments for foot problems, the IPA has had a significant impact on the lives of many people in India.