Foot Amputations More Likely for Diabetics
While foot care is often at the bottom of people’s lists when it comes to overall health, diabetics, in particular, should especially pay attention to their feet. Diabetics are 20 times more likely to have a toe or foot amputated due to an infected wound. These wounds will often develop due to lacking foot care and lacking knowledge about conditions that plague diabetic feet, such as diabetic neuropathy. High blood sugar and a lack of oxygen due to poor blood flow cause nerve damage in the feet, which allows for wounds to develop painlessly and undetected. For many diabetics, these wounds will continue to exacerbate until it is too late. Getting a diagnosis early on can help patients learn proper diabetic foot care management.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes. It’s wise to have a podiatrist help monitor your foot health as well.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of Michigan’s best podiatrists at our Southfield office. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.