If you’re living with diabetes, your feet need more than occasional attention — they need expert, proactive care. Diabetes can silently damage nerves and blood vessels in the feet, turning minor issues into serious complications before you ever notice a symptom. Routine diabetic foot exams are one of the most effective steps you can take to protect your long-term foot health, stay active, and avoid preventable complications.
At Momentum Foot & Ankle, your care is led by Dr. Christopher W. Zimmer, DPM, a board-eligible, fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon with advanced expertise in lower extremity reconstruction, trauma, and diabetic limb salvage. Dr. Zimmer completed his fellowship at Westside Regional Medical Center in Plantation, FL, where he trained extensively in the complications of diabetic foot disease — including wound management, limb salvage, and surgical reconstruction. His published research, national presentations, and hands-on surgical experience allow him to detect early warning signs others may miss and build treatment plans that are honest, individualized, and evidence-based.
What Is a Diabetic Foot Exam?
A diabetic foot exam is a comprehensive evaluation of your feet and lower legs designed to identify complications before they become serious. Because diabetes affects circulation and nerve function, patients are at elevated risk for:
- Peripheral neuropathy — numbness or loss of sensation in the feet
- Poor circulation and peripheral vascular disease
- Skin breakdown, ulcers, and non-healing wounds
- Infections that can spread rapidly to deeper tissues or bone
- Structural deformities such as Charcot foot
Identifying these issues early can prevent hospitalizations, amputations, and more serious outcomes down the road.
What to Expect During Your Exam
Your diabetic foot exam at Momentum Foot & Ankle is thorough, comfortable, and focused. Dr. Zimmer will carefully evaluate:
- Skin and nail health — wounds, calluses, ulcers, fungal infections, and nail changes
- Neurological function — sensation, reflexes, and signs of neuropathy
- Vascular status — circulation and blood flow to the feet and legs
- Structural integrity — deformities, pressure points, or joint changes
- Footwear assessment — whether shoes may be contributing to problems
The exam is painless and typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of your foot health and what, if anything, needs to be addressed.
How Often Should You Have a Diabetic Foot Exam?
The American Diabetes Association recommends a comprehensive foot exam at least once per year for most diabetic patients. However, those with neuropathy, a history of ulcers, or poor circulation may need more frequent monitoring — sometimes every one to three months. Dr. Zimmer will determine the right schedule based on your individual risk and history.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Don’t wait for your annual exam if you notice any of the following:
- A wound, sore, or blister that isn’t healing
- Numbness, tingling, or burning in your feet
- Redness, warmth, or swelling in the foot or ankle
- Changes in skin color or foot temperature
- New pain or a noticeable change in foot shape
These symptoms can escalate quickly in diabetic patients. Prompt evaluation is always the right decision.
Why Choose Momentum Foot & Ankle?
We believe diabetic foot care is about more than treating problems — it’s about prevention, education, and protecting your quality of life. Dr. Zimmer takes the time to explain what he finds, what it means, and what your options are. You’ll never feel rushed or leave with unanswered questions. We serve patients throughout Boynton Beach and Palm Beach County with convenient scheduling, insurance acceptance, and a commitment to compassionate, expert care.
Take the first step in protecting your foot health. Contact us today at (561) 369-4455 to schedule your diabetic foot exam — because early care makes all the difference.
