Why Prevention Beats Amputation: Dr. Chhaya Makhija & Dr. Tea Nguyen, DPM, on Proactive Foot Care
In a recent in-depth conversation, Dr. Chhaya Makhija sat down with Dr. Tea Nguyen, DPM—a board-certified podiatrist and founder of Pacific Point Podiatry—to explain why prevention is the most powerful tool against diabetic foot complications and amputation. Their dialogue uncovers both the science and the human stories behind patient-centered limb preservation.
“If you don’t have pain, your feet are fine. Absolutely false,” says Dr. Tea Nguyen, DPM, busting one of the biggest myths in foot health. “Those are the most tragic cases—when patients can’t feel. Not feeling pain doesn’t mean you don’t need a podiatrist.”
The High Stakes of Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes brings nerve damage, circulation problems, and slower healing, all of which raise the risk of ulcers and, ultimately, amputation. Dr. Nguyen shared a striking example:
“Jay came to me for a second opinion after three surgeons told him he needed a leg amputation,” Dr. Nguyen recalls. “He was in his late 70s, felt unheard, and feared losing his leg.”
Instead of defaulting to amputation, she offered advanced wound care, personalized coaching, and coordination with other specialists. The result: Jay maintained his mobility and independence for years.
“We can do limb-saving, limb-salvage, limb-preservation surgeries—no amputation needed if we catch it early,” Dr. Nguyen explains.
Dr. Makhija underscores the broader impact:
“The cost savings of preserving a foot—avoiding crutches, rehab, extra hospital stays—are huge. But the real win is keeping someone independent and pain-free.”
Key Strategies for Prevention and Early Intervention
Both experts agree: early action yields the best outcomes. Dr. Nguyen highlights three cornerstones:
Regular Podiatry Screenings
A trained eye spots subtle warning signs—tight Achilles tendons, thinning fat pads, or bad shoe wear.Proper Footwear
“Many off-the-rack shoes are foot-health foes. A preventive screening and shoe check can stop ulcers before they start.”Daily Self-Checks
Look for redness, swelling, cuts, or calluses—and act immediately.
Foot Health for Everyone
While diabetes is a top risk factor, every foot deserves attention. For common issues like plantar fasciitis, Dr. Nguyen advises:
“First step: assess your shoes. If they’re worn or unsupportive, it’s time for an upgrade.”
She also recommends simple strengthening exercises and monitoring any change in activity or footwear.
Making Foot Care Routine
“We pamper our hair and skin, wash our hands constantly—but ignore our feet until pain hits,” Dr. Nguyen observes.
She suggests daily inspections, regular footwear updates, and podiatry visits—even for symptom-free patients.
The Takeaway: Prevention Empowers Patients
“Foot infections and diabetes don’t have to end in amputation. Catch issues early, and we can protect every step,” Dr. Nguyen affirms.
Dr. Makhija adds:
“Whether you’re managing diabetes, battling heel pain, or just want healthier feet, proactive care and early intervention make all the difference.”
By prioritizing prevention, partnering with specialists, and making foot health a daily habit, patients can steer clear of unnecessary surgeries—and keep moving confidently for life.
Serving the Bay Area & Central California with Proactive Diabetic Care
Dr. Makhija is a board-certified endocrinologist and diabetes specialist who serves patients across the San Francisco Bay Area, including Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, Oakland, San Francisco, Palo Alto, and San Jose. She offers both in-person and telemedicine appointments for your convenience.
Her expertise is in helping people with diabetes reduce the risk of foot complications through:
Comprehensive diabetes management
Early identification of risk factors for foot problems
Education on prevention strategies
Coordination of care with podiatrists and other specialists as needed
If you are seeking an endocrinologist to help you manage your diabetes and prevent complications—including those affecting your feet—Dr. Makhija can provide expert medical guidance and support.
Your mobility and independence matter—every step counts. Let’s work together to keep you healthy and active.
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Your mobility and independence matter—every step counts. Let’s protect your feet so you can live life fully.
Watch the entire interview below:
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Visit Us in Lafayette
Find our medical office in the heart of Lafayette, California—a peaceful Bay Area community nestled by Lafayette Reservoir, with top-rated schools and a charming downtown. It’s the perfect setting to focus on your thyroid health and diabetes management.
Just a short drive away, Walnut Creek offers world-class shopping, dining, and access to Mount Diablo State Park, alongside leading healthcare resources. Wherever you are in Contra Costa County, Dr. Makhija is ready to help you safeguard your health.