Diabetic foot · preventive care.

People with diabetes need special care for their feet. A small wound or an ingrown toenail can become a serious complication if not treated in time. Dr Cristina Koziy offers specialist diabetic foot assessment and treatment in Valencia for patients with diabetes, taking a preventive and personalised approach.

Why is diabetic foot care important?

Diabetes affects blood circulation and the peripheral nerves, two systems that the feet need to stay healthy. When blood glucose is not well controlled over many years, small blood vessels deteriorate and the nerves gradually lose sensitivity. This means that a rubbing shoe, a callus or a poorly cut toenail can go unnoticed until they become a major problem. As a graduate in Podiatry from the Catholic University of Valencia, I have seen first-hand how regular care and close monitoring make a real difference to the foot health of my diabetic patients. Furthermore, diabetes is part of my immediate family, which has given me first-hand insight into the importance of foot care and prevention for people with diabetes. It’s not about panicking at every little discomfort, but about knowing what to watch out for and when to seek help.

Common complications of diabetic foot

For people with diabetes, the feet are one of the areas requiring the most specialised care. The most common complications I treat in my practice include:

• Diabetic neuropathy: progressive loss of sensation that prevents the detection of wounds, excessive heat or inappropriate pressure from footwear.
• Charcot foot: a serious bone deformity caused by nerve damage; it requires early diagnosis and treatment to avoid permanent consequences.
• Plantar ulcers: wounds that do not heal properly and which, without appropriate podiatric treatment, can lead to deep infections.
• Infections: in a foot with compromised circulation, an apparently minor infection can progress rapidly.
• Poor healing: hyperglycaemia hinders normal tissue repair.

Being aware of these complications need not cause anxiety. With regular check-ups and good habits, many of them are preventable.

Warning signs — when to seek immediate medical attention

There are situations where you should not wait until your next scheduled check-up. I recommend that you seek medical advice without delay if you notice any of these signs:

• Numbness, tingling or loss of sensation in your feet.
• A wound, blister or cut that does not heal within a few days.
• Changes in skin colour: redness, paleness or bluish areas.
• Unusual swelling in a foot or ankle.
• Ingrown toenails — particularly important in diabetic patients, as an ingrown toenail can easily become infected and require urgent treatment.

In diabetes, waiting to see how a wound develops is not always the safest decision. A call to make an appointment can prevent more serious complications.

Podiatric examination for diabetic patients

The first visit — and regular check-ups — include a comprehensive and structured assessment. During the consultation, I examine:

• Blood circulation: palpation of pulses, skin temperature and skin colour to detect signs of ischaemia or poor blood supply.
• Neurological sensitivity: tests for sensitivity to touch, temperature and pressure to identify early-stage neuropathy.
• Skin and nails: checking for calluses, cracks, fungal infections, wounds and the general condition of the nails.
• Gait and footwear: assessment of foot pressure distribution and analysis of the patient’s usual footwear to detect possible areas of friction or excessive pressure.

This examination allows me to identify risks before they become problems and to establish a follow-up plan tailored to each patient.

Treatment of diabetic foot in Valencia

There is no single protocol for the treatment of diabetic foot. Every patient has different needs, and the plan I design is always based on an individual assessment. The most common treatments include:

• Regular preventive care: regular check-ups to keep feet in optimal condition and detect changes early.
• Treatment of wounds and ulcers: cleaning, debridement and specialised dressing of lesions that do not heal normally.
• Custom orthotics and insoles: production of bespoke insoles to redistribute plantar pressure and protect high-risk areas.
• Nail care: cutting and technical treatment of nails, including thickened nails and ingrown nails, with particular care taken with diabetic patients.
• Patient education: at each visit, I take time to explain which habits protect the feet and how to recognise warning signs at home.

Daily recommendations for diabetic patients

As well as visiting the podiatrist, there are things you can do every day to protect your feet:

• Check your feet every day, including between the toes and the soles. If you can’t see properly, use a mirror or ask someone you trust for help.
• Always wear closed shoes made of soft materials (fabric or leather) with no internal seams that rub. Never walk barefoot, not even at home.
• Wash your feet daily with lukewarm (not hot) water and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
• Moisturise the skin on your feet with a suitable cream, but avoid applying it between your toes to prevent moisture build-up.
• If you notice any changes, however small they may seem, discuss them at your next appointment or call the clinic if it is urgent.

Specialist diabetic foot clinic in Valencia

My podiatry practice is in Valencia and treats patients from the city and surrounding areas. If you have diabetes and are looking for local podiatry care in a calm environment with no long waiting lists, you can contact me directly to arrange an initial appointment. The aim is always the same: for you to arrive with a concern and leave with a clear plan.

How can you prevent diabetic foot complications?

Prevention is one of the most important pillars of diabetic foot care. Maintaining good blood glucose control, checking your feet daily and attending regular podiatry check-ups allows problems to be detected before they turn into serious complications. Regular monitoring by a podiatrist specialising in diabetic foot care helps reduce the risk of ulcers, infections and other injuries that can affect mobility and quality of life.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I see a podiatrist if I have diabetes?

It depends on each patient’s level of risk. Generally, at least one check-up every three to six months is recommended. At your first appointment, I will assess the most appropriate frequency for you.

Can I cut my own toenails?

It can be risky if you have loss of sensation or circulation problems. Many diabetic patients prefer to have a podiatrist do it to avoid accidental cuts that could become infected.

What footwear should I wear?

Closed shoes, in the correct size, made of breathable materials and without seams that rub. Avoid shoes with narrow toes or high heels. If you have foot deformities or pressure points, I can recommend custom-made insoles.

How do I know if I have neuropathy?

The most common symptoms are tingling, a burning sensation, numbness or loss of sensation in the feet. A neurological examination during the consultation will confirm whether there is any damage and to what extent.

If you have diabetes and live in Valencia, Dr Cristina Koziy offers specialist podiatric assessment and treatment to look after your feet. You can find more information at www.drakoziy.es.