For people with neuropathy, the ADA recommends a thorough foot exam at least annually and a visual inspection of the feet at each regular physician's appointment. Your regular doctor may perform these tests, or she may refer you to a podiatrist. A doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM) is a medical doctor with specialized training in the physiology and medical care of the foot and ankle. Podiatrists are licensed in all fifty states.

If you have diagnosed structural, nerve, or skin problems with your feet, a podiatrist should be on your diabetes care team, and you should see him every three to six months. Foot ulcers, in particular, require specialized wound care to avoid infection and possible amputation.

In addition to the regular tests for neuropathy described previously, a podiatrist will assess the pulse of the foot and ankle (pedal pulse) and the temperature of your feet to screen for circulatory problems. Blood pressure readings of both the ankle and the arm are also performed with a cuff, and ultrasound or Doppler may be used to check blood flow.