Daily care helps avoid diabetic foot complications

I want to remind people 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.  The disease can cause poor blood circulation and nerve damage in the feet, making them vulnerable to developing ulcers, infections, deformities and brittle bones.

• 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.

People with diabetes must always be vigilant, and call our office at the first sign of trouble. Early treatment can keep diabetic foot problems from progressing, and reduce the risk of amputations.