Podiatrist Appointment

I have another doctor’s appointment later this morning. It’s the first time seeing this podiatrist. My last podiatrist packed up his bags and moved to Arizona. He mentioned this as an afterthought during our last appointment. The podiatrist I’m seeing today replaced him in the same office so hopefully all my medical records are still in their system but I’m not hopeful. I’m showing up 30 minutes early in case I have to fill out my medication list for the 20th time.

Seeing a podiatrist is important for a diabetic patient. Since I have peripheral neuropathy, the combination of poor blood flow and lack of sensation means foot injuries may not be detected right away, and healing will be slow. Infections or ulcers can spread very quickly as I experienced five years ago with my right ankle/heel. I think my feet are okay now except for a persistent scab on my left toe; it’s dry and not weeping but not healing 100% either. I think there may be a fungal infection in that foot so I need the podiatrist to check it out. On my right foot, the 2nd toe is a bit curved, like there’s something wrong with the connective tissue. That may have been caused by a broken toe not healing right but I can’t remember the sequence of events.

Finally, I’ve been looking at finding an acupuncturist. I probably need to find out if it’s okay to have someone poke holes in my foot. I think they won’t stick anything in the soles of the feet but may put needles in to top of my foot. I’m also thinking of getting reflexology or foot massages. I think that’s probably okay but I should check with the podiatrist.

Again, I’m wary each time I go see a doctor since there’s usually only bad news. Here’s hoping I won’t have too many new medical issues to add to my list today.