November is American Diabetes Month: Comprehensive Foot and Nerve Care at Align Foot & Ankle
Each November, American Diabetes Month reminds us how vital it is to stay proactive in managing diabetes and its complications. For individuals living with diabetes, one of the most important areas to monitor is foot health. At Align Foot & Ankle Clinic, Dr. Thuy Ho-Ellsworth provides comprehensive diabetic and neuropathy care designed to prevent complications, promote healing, and preserve mobility.
Because diabetes can affect both circulation and nerve function, early detection and regular evaluation are key to avoiding serious problems such as ulcers, infections, and nerve damage.
Expert Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetic foot care is specialized medical care aimed at preventing and managing complications that arise from high blood sugar levels, including peripheral neuropathy and vascular disease.
Peripheral neuropathy—nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar—can lead to tingling, burning, or numbness in the feet. This loss of sensation increases the risk of unnoticed injuries that can worsen into ulcers.
Vascular disease—which affects more than 30% of people with diabetes—reduces blood flow to the lower limbs, slowing wound healing and raising the risk of infection.
At Align Foot & Ankle, we focus on prevention, early intervention, and advanced therapy to protect your feet and overall health.
Diagnostic Studies for Early Detection
Diabetic Testing and Routine Foot Exams
Regular foot exams allow Dr. Ho-Ellsworth to identify early changes in circulation, nerve function, or skin integrity before complications develop.
Vascular Studies: ABI/TBI
The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) and Toe-Brachial Index (TBI) are non-invasive tests used to evaluate blood flow and detect peripheral arterial disease (PAD). These studies help determine if reduced circulation is contributing to slow-healing wounds or discomfort.
Sudomotor Function Testing
Our sudomotor studies measure sweat gland activity to assess autonomic nerve health. Impaired function may indicate early neuropathy or risk for skin breakdown—allowing us to intervene before ulcers form.
Advanced Therapies for Diabetic Neuropathy
At Align Foot & Ankle, Dr. Ho-Ellsworth offers advanced therapies that target the underlying causes and symptoms of neuropathy, helping patients regain comfort and function.
Class IV Laser Therapy
Our Class IV laser therapy systems, including the MLS Laser and Remy Class IV Laser, use light energy to stimulate cellular repair, increase circulation, and reduce inflammation. These treatments are non-invasive, pain-free, and clinically proven to enhance nerve recovery. Laser therapy promotes healing, improves sensation, and supports long-term comfort in patients with diabetic neuropathy.
Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
ESWT uses acoustic wave technology to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. This therapy enhances blood flow, activates nerve repair, and promotes tissue regeneration, making it an effective option for reducing neuropathic pain and improving sensation in the feet.
Qutenza
Qutenza is an FDA-approved topical treatment that delivers concentrated capsaicin directly to affected nerves. It desensitizes overactive pain fibers to provide up to three months of relief after a single in-office application. Because it’s non-systemic, Qutenza offers targeted pain control without the side effects of oral medications.
EBM EBN6 Supplement
EBM EBN6 is a specialized medical food formulated to address metabolic deficiencies associated with peripheral neuropathy. Rather than masking symptoms, it supports natural nerve repair and improved circulation over time. Many patients experience reduced numbness, less burning pain, and better sleep quality with consistent use.
Wound and Skin Care for Diabetic Patients
Diabetes can lead to skin changes, dryness, and slow-healing wounds that require careful management.
Dr. Ho-Ellsworth provides individualized wound care, circulation therapy, and protective dressings for ulcers, dermatitis, infections, and venous stasis dermatitis. Early, targeted treatment helps prevent complications and promote faster healing.
A Personalized Approach to Diabetic Health
Dr. Ho-Ellsworth takes a holistic approach to diabetic care—combining medical expertise with patient education. She emphasizes proper foot hygiene, supportive footwear, and daily self-checks to help patients recognize early warning signs of infection or injury.
Whether managing chronic neuropathy, improving circulation, or treating wounds, her goal is to keep patients mobile, active, and confident in their care.
Take Control of Your Diabetic Foot Health This November
This American Diabetes Month, take the step toward proactive care. Schedule a diabetic foot evaluation at Align Foot & Ankle to ensure your feet—and your health—are protected for the long term.
Align Foot & Ankle | 1600 W 1600 W 38th St #408, Austin, TX 78731
512-882-4911
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