Diabetic Foot Care in Nassau County

Diabetes, a group of diseases marked by high levels of blood glucose, affects 26 million people in the United States. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diabetes-related complications may present initially in the foot.

If you have diabetes, your feet need specialized care. Diabetes can damage the nerves and blood vessels that keep your feet healthy, making even minor cuts, blisters, or pressure sores potentially serious. At Cherrywood Foot Care in Bellmore, NY, our podiatrists provide comprehensive diabetic foot care to help Nassau County patients prevent complications, manage symptoms, and protect their long-term mobility.
Call us at (516) 826-9000 to schedule a diabetic foot evaluation, or continue reading to learn what to expect from treatment.

Why Diabetes Affects Your Feet

Diabetes affects the feet through two primary mechanisms:
  • Peripheral neuropathy: High blood sugar over time damages the peripheral nerves in your legs and feet. This causes numbness, tingling, burning, or loss of sensation, so you may not feel a wound or blister forming until it becomes infected.
  • Poor circulation (peripheral arterial disease): Diabetes narrows and hardens the blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the feet. Without adequate circulation, wounds heal slowly, and the risk of infection increases dramatically.
Together, these conditions mean that a small cut, an ingrown toenail, or an ill-fitting shoe can escalate into a serious infection or, in the most severe cases, require amputation. More than 60% of non-traumatic lower-limb amputations in the U.S. occur in people with diabetes. Regular podiatric care is one of the most effective ways to prevent that outcome.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Patients with diabetes should inspect their feet daily and call our office promptly if they notice any of the following:
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Warning Sign
What to Do
Open sore, cut, or blister that won’t heal
Call our office the same day — do not wait
Redness, warmth, or swelling in the foot or ankle
May indicate infection; seek care within 24 hours
Numbness, tingling, or burning sensation
Schedule a neuropathy evaluation
Skin color changes (pale, blue, or darkened areas)
May signal circulation problems — call promptly
Thickened or discolored toenails
Can mask underlying fungal infection; schedule evaluation
Calluses or corns, especially under pressure points
Can break down into ulcers; do not self-treat
Foot pain at rest or during the night
May indicate vascular insufficiency
Hammertoes or bunion-related pressure sores
Require professional management to prevent ulceration

 

Diabetic Foot Care Services at Cherrywood

Our Nassau County podiatry team offers a full continuum of diabetic foot care, from routine preventive visits to advanced wound management.

Comprehensive diabetic foot exams

At each visit, we assess sensation, circulation, skin integrity, nail health, and biomechanics. We use monofilament testing and Doppler ultrasound to evaluate nerve function and blood flow, the two most important indicators of diabetic foot health. We recommend diabetic patients schedule exams at least every 3–6 months, or more frequently if complications are present.

Diabetic wound care and ulcer treatment

Diabetic foot ulcers are the leading cause of hospitalization among people with diabetes. Our wound care protocol includes debridement of non-viable tissue, infection management, appropriate dressings, off-loading devices to relieve pressure, and close monitoring of healing progress. We coordinate with your primary care physician or endocrinologist to ensure systemic blood sugar control supports local wound healing.

Neuropathy management

Peripheral neuropathy has no cure, but its impact on daily life can be managed effectively. We evaluate the type and severity of your neuropathy, recommend appropriate footwear and custom orthotics to redistribute pressure, and monitor for changes over time. We also educate patients about protective sensation loss, which is critical for daily self-care.​

Custom orthotics and diabetic footwear

Ill-fitting shoes are a leading cause of diabetic foot ulcers. We prescribe custom-molded orthotics and diabetic-grade therapeutic shoes (qualifying patients may receive coverage through Medicare Part B) that protect vulnerable pressure points and reduce the risk of callus breakdown and ulceration. Dr. Burke specializes in the biomechanics of the foot and has extensive experience in orthotic prescription for diabetic patients.

Nail care and skin management

For patients with diabetes, routine nail trimming and callus removal pose real risks when performed by an untrained provider. Our clinical team performs safe nail and skin care, treats ingrown toenails and toenail fungus (which are more common and harder to treat in diabetic patients), and removes painful calluses and corns that could otherwise break down into ulcers.

If you have any questions regarding diabetic foot care, please call or e-mail [email protected] with all of your questions so we can help you stay on your feet for a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should a diabetic person see a podiatrist?

At minimum every 6 months; every 3 months if you have neuropathy, circulation problems, or a history of ulcers.

Does Medicare cover diabetic foot care?

Yes, Medicare Part B covers one diabetic foot exam every 6 months for patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy and loss of protective sensation.

What insurance do you accept?

We accept most major insurance plans including Medicare, Medicaid, Healthfirst, and many commercial plans. Call (516) 826-9000 to verify your coverage.

Can I still exercise if I have diabetic neuropathy?

Yes, with appropriate footwear and guidance. Our team can recommend safe activities and protective measures to keep you active.

What should I do if I find a wound on my foot?

Call our office the same day. Do not apply home remedies, drain it yourself, or wait to see if it heals on its own.

Why Nassau County Patients Choose Cherrywood Foot Care

Cherrywood Foot Care has served the communities of Bellmore, Wantagh, Merrick, East Meadow, and surrounding Nassau County towns for more than 25 years. Our team has been voted Best Podiatrist on Long Island 16 consecutive years by the Bethpage Federal Credit Union community poll.
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For diabetic patients, our advantages include:
  • Board-certified podiatrists with specialized training in diabetic limb preservation
  • On-site digital radiology for rapid assessment of bone involvement in infections
  • Direct coordination with endocrinologists, vascular surgeons, and wound care centers when needed
  • Same-day appointments available for urgent diabetic foot concerns
  • Convenient location in Bellmore, easily accessible from Wantagh, Merrick, Levittown, and Freeport

Take Steps Towards Healthy Feet Today

Empower yourself with the knowledge and care needed for healthy feet. At Cherrywood Foot Care, we provide education on preventive measures and proper foot hygiene to avoid infections and maintain overall foot health. For inquiries or to schedule an appointment, call us at (516) 826-9000 or visit our contact page. Our team is ready to assist with your foot care needs. Begin your journey to healthier feet today!

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FAQ’s – Diabetic Foot Care

What are the signs of diabetic foot problems?

Watch for symptoms like tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in your feet. Also, look for any cuts, sores, or changes in color that don’t heal properly. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to seek help right away!

How often should I check my feet?

It’s a good idea to check your feet every day for any changes. If you can’t see well, ask a family member to help you out. Daily inspections can help catch problems early!

What should I do if I find a sore or cut?

If you find a sore or cut, clean it gently with soap and water, apply a bandage, and contact our office for further advice. Don’t ignore it, as even small injuries can become serious quickly!

Do I need special shoes?

Yes, wearing the right shoes is crucial. We can help you find shoes that fit well and provide the support you need to prevent injuries and maintain foot health.

When should I see a podiatrist?

You should see a podiatrist if you notice any foot problems, have pain, or if you have any concerns about your foot health. Regular check-ups are important for prevention!

How can I prevent foot issues?

Maintaining good blood sugar levels, keeping your feet clean and dry, and wearing proper footwear are key steps in preventing foot issues. Regular check-ups with our team can help too!

What if I need surgery?

If surgery is necessary, don’t worry! Our experienced team will guide you through the process and explain what to expect, ensuring you feel comfortable every step of the way.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Scheduling an appointment is easy! Just give us a call or visit our contact page to find a time that works for you. We’re here to help you with your foot care needs!

Can diabetic foot problems be treated?

Absolutely! Many foot problems related to diabetes can be effectively treated with proper care and management. Our team is here to support you in achieving healthier feet!

What should I do in case of an emergency?

If you experience severe pain, swelling, or infections, don’t hesitate to seek emergency care. Prompt attention can make a significant difference in your recovery!