Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputation in the United States. Expert preventive care and early intervention can dramatically reduce this risk.
Why Diabetic Foot Care Is Critical
Diabetes affects the feet through two primary mechanisms: peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage that reduces sensation) and peripheral arterial disease (reduced blood flow that impairs healing). Together, these create a dangerous combination — patients cannot feel injuries that then fail to heal properly.
A minor blister, callus, or cut that would be trivial in a healthy individual can progress to a deep wound infection, osteomyelitis (bone infection), or gangrene in a diabetic patient — sometimes within days. The consequences, if not caught early, can be limb-threatening.
Dr. Bregman's expertise in peripheral nerve diagnosis places him in a unique position to evaluate and treat the neurological component of diabetic foot disease — including identifying which patients may benefit from nerve decompression surgery to restore protective sensation and reduce ulceration risk.
Conditions Managed
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Nerve damage causing numbness, burning, tingling, or pain in the feet and legs. Dr. Bregman evaluates for superimposed nerve entrapment that may be surgically correctable.
Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Non-healing wounds on the plantar surface or toes. Comprehensive wound care including offloading, debridement, and advanced wound dressings.
Charcot Neuroarthropathy
Progressive destruction of the foot and ankle bones due to neuropathy. Early diagnosis and immobilization are critical to preventing permanent deformity.
Ingrown Toenails
A seemingly minor problem that can lead to serious infection in diabetic patients. Prompt and definitive treatment is essential.
Calluses & Pressure Lesions
Pre-ulcerative lesions that require regular debridement and offloading to prevent breakdown into open wounds.
Infection Management
Diabetic foot infections require aggressive evaluation and treatment. Dr. Bregman coordinates with infectious disease specialists and vascular surgeons as needed.
Nerve Decompression in Diabetic Patients
Research has demonstrated that diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy have a significantly higher incidence of superimposed nerve entrapment at anatomically narrow tunnels in the lower extremity. Decompressing these entrapments — at the tarsal tunnel, deep peroneal nerve, and common fibular nerve — can restore protective sensation in carefully selected patients.
Dr. Bregman has performed nerve decompression surgery in diabetic patients with documented neuropathy and has observed meaningful improvements in sensation, balance, and quality of life. This remains an area of active clinical interest and ongoing research.
Important Note
Nerve decompression for diabetic neuropathy is not appropriate for all patients. Candidacy requires thorough evaluation including vascular assessment, nerve conduction studies, and clinical examination. Dr. Bregman will provide an honest assessment of whether surgery is likely to benefit you.
Daily Foot Care for Diabetic Patients
Protect Your Feet. Protect Your Life.
If you have diabetes, annual foot examinations are essential. Schedule your evaluation with Dr. Bregman today.
Book a Diabetic Foot Evaluation