Diabetic Foot Care — Your Annual Exam Could Save Your Foot
The fast answer: If you have diabetes, an annual comprehensive diabetic foot exam is critical. Diabetic foot ulcers are the leading cause of non-traumatic amputations in the U.S. — most are preventable with appropriate care. Most insurances (including Medicare) cover annual exams plus diabetic shoes/inserts under the Therapeutic Shoe Bill.
Why Diabetic Foot Care Matters
Diabetes affects feet in three ways: neuropathy (lose protective sensation), peripheral artery disease (poor circulation, slow healing), compromised immunity (infections spread faster). Result: small injuries can become limb-threatening. Annual exams reduce amputation risk by 45-85%.
The Statistics
- 25-30% of diabetics develop a foot ulcer in their lifetime
- 60% of non-traumatic amputations are diabetes-related
- 5-year mortality after diabetic amputation: 50-70%
- 85% of diabetic amputations are preventable
What Happens at a Diabetic Foot Exam
30-45 minutes covering: comprehensive history, skin/soft tissue exam, vascular exam (pulses, Doppler, ABI), neurological exam (vibration, monofilament 10g), musculoskeletal exam, footwear assessment, patient education, risk stratification (Risk 0-3).
The Therapeutic Shoe Bill (Medicare Benefit)
Diabetic patients with neuropathy/deformity/PAD/prior ulcer/amputation/pre-ulcerative callus qualify for: one pair of therapeutic shoes AND three pairs of custom inserts annually — Medicare pays 80%. Most patients pay $0-$50. We file paperwork directly.
How Often Should I See a Podiatrist?
Risk 0: Yearly minimum.
Risk 1 (neuropathy): Yearly.
Risk 2 (neuropathy + deformity, or PAD): Every 6 months.
Risk 3 (prior ulcer/amputation): Every 3 months.
Active wound: Weekly until healed.
Self-Care Education
Daily 5-minute inspection. Wash with warm water (TEST WITH HAND, not foot). Dry between toes thoroughly. Moisturize tops/bottoms (NEVER between toes). Trim nails straight across. Don’t walk barefoot. Don’t use heating pads on feet. Call IMMEDIATELY for any new wound, redness, drainage, or color change.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have a diabetic foot exam?
Annually with no complications. Every 6 months with neuropathy. Every 3 months if you’ve had a prior ulcer.
Does Medicare cover diabetic foot exams?
Yes, 100% covered annually under preventive services.
Will Medicare pay for my diabetic shoes?
Yes, 80% covered. One pair of shoes and three pairs of custom inserts annually.
I have a small cut on my foot — should I worry?
Yes, in diabetics. Even small wounds can become limb-threatening. Call same day for guidance.
Can I trim my own toenails if I have diabetes?
Sometimes. With good vision, no neuropathy, no foot deformity — yes. Otherwise professional trimming is safer.
Can diabetic foot ulcers heal completely?
Yes. With aggressive early treatment, 75-85% heal within 12-20 weeks.
Will I lose my foot if I have a diabetic ulcer?
Most diabetic ulcers (>75%) heal with proper treatment. Time and proper care matter most.
Book Your Appointment
📞 Call (248) 273-8800 — Same-Week Appointments Available
Book Online →
Diabetic — Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a podiatrist for diabetic?
If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks of self-care, interfere with daily activity, or worsen suddenly, schedule a podiatrist evaluation. Early intervention typically shortens recovery and prevents chronic compensation patterns.
Will I need imaging or surgery?
Most diabetic cases resolve with conservative care—custom orthotics, supportive shoe changes, anti-inflammatory protocols, and targeted physical therapy. Imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) is reserved for cases that fail conservative treatment or when structural pathology is suspected. Surgery is rarely the first option.
Does insurance cover diabetic treatment in Michigan?
Most major Michigan insurance plans (BCBS, BCN, Priority Health, HAP, Medicare, Medicaid HMOs, United, Aetna, Cigna) cover medically necessary podiatric care. Custom orthotics may have separate DME coverage rules. Our team verifies your specific benefits before your visit.
Our podiatrists treat the underlying cause, not just the symptom. Same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan offices.