Diabetes and Your Feet
Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations in the USA.
People with diabetes are at greater risk of complications, such as diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular diseases, which can ultimately lead to a foot ulcer. A foot ulcer is a very serious complication. In fact, 85% of patients who lost a limb had a foot ulcer first.
Though a diabetes-related foot ulcer can be anywhere on the foot, most occur on the ball of the foot or on the bottom of the toes. Once you develop an ulcer, it may take weeks or even months for it to heal.
Symptoms
•You may be at risk for a foot ulcer if you have one or more of the following signs:
• Lack of sensation (feeling) in your feet
•Feeling of “pins and needles” in your feet
•Feet that hurt while walking or resting
•Stains on socks or shoes
•Sores that do not heal
•Skin on your feet becomes thick, dry or scaly
•Calluses on the feet or toes
Risk Factors
- Elevated Blood Sugar
- Hypothyroidism
- Obesity
- Hypertension
- Alcoholism
- Smoking
Early intervention and proper treatment can help prevent complications and reduce your risk of amputation.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us at 308.832.6535 or kenda.ekdahl@restorixhealth.com to learn more about our providers or treatment plans. We’re happy to clarify anything you feel uncertain about regarding the wound care treatment process.