Diabetes and Amputation Prevention

If you are a diabetic, this isn’t the first time you’ve been told about how essential diabetes foot care is. You’ve heard about the risks with injuries and ulcers — and the possibility of foot amputation in extreme situations.

But to properly mitigate the risks, you need to know what to do. Today, we are giving you a primer on foot amputation prevention for diabetics.

Foot amputation is a real risk for diabetics and you need to take steps to prevent this.

Nine Steps for Amputation Prevention

The primary risk factor for diabetic foot amputation is developing ulcers on the feet. So, the steps you take to prevent amputation really center on preventing foot ulcers and, if they should develop, catching and treating them early.

1. Inspect Your Feet Every Day: Each day, take a minute or two to really look at your feet — top, bottom and between your toes. If you see any issues, get them addressed quickly.
2. Clean Your Feet Daily: In the shower, gently scrub them to ensure there is no debris that could cause injuries or infections.
3. Leave Calluses, Bunions, Corns and Warts to the Professionals: Schedule a podiatrist appointment if you see these.
4. Take Care When Cutting Your Nails: Cutting too short can cause injuries and infections.
5. Buy Well-Fitting, Supportive Shoes: When shoes are too tight or not supportive, you are likely to get blisters that turn into ulcers.
6. Always Wear Shoes: Also, keep those well-fitting shoes on, even around the house. They offer important protection for your feet.
7. Wear Clean, Dry Socks: Clean feet are healthy feet. As for wet socks, they increase the chance of injuries.
8. Avoid Smoking: If you smoke, you won’t heal as fast as you would if you stop, increasing the chances of sores becoming ulcers and ulcers requiring amputation.
9. See Your Podiatrist Regularly: You never know what you might miss. See your podiatrist regularly for professional examination.

Is it time for your podiatry appointment? Partner with us! Call the office at 301-948-2995 or fill out the contact form.