Daily Care Helps Avoid Diabetic Foot Complications

With the observance of National Diabetes Month in November, I would like to remind patients‘ with diabetes that following simple foot care tips can reduce their risk of toe, foot or leg amputations.

People with diabetes are 10 times more likely to have a lower limb amputated than people without diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes can cause poor blood circulation and nerve damage in the feet, making them vulnerable to developing ulcers, infections, deformities and brittle bones.

The ACFAS consumer Web site FootPhysicians.com provides these foot care tips for people with diabetes:

• Inspect feet daily for injuries that could lead to dangerous ulcers.
• Gently wash feet in lukewarm (not hot!) water.
• Moisturize feet, avoiding the area between the toes.
• Never trim corns or calluses; this can lead to serious infections.
• Inspect the inside of shoes before wearing.
• Periodic visits to your Podiatrist are mandatory if poor circulation or poor sensation (neuropathy) is present.
• At the first signs of infection, redness, swelling, drainage, fever, chills, call your family Doctor for evaluation.

People with diabetes must always be vigilant, do not hesitate to see a foot and ankle surgeon at the first sign of trouble. Early treatment can keep diabetic foot problems from progressing, and reduce the risk of amputations. If any friends or family members have been recently diagnosed with Diabetes, they should see a Podiatrist at least once for an initial evaluation and determination of their future care needs.