Diabetes-related Foot Amputation Decline in the US

Diabetes-related Foot Amputation Decline in the US

Diabetic Foot CareResearchers report in the July issue of the journal Foot & Ankle International, that fewer people in the U.S. are undergoing diabetes-associated limb amputations, even though the rates of diabetes are rising. In 2008 alone, about 70,000 people underwent limb amputations according to the CDC.

Limb amputations caused by diabetes account for 60 percent of all amputations in the U.S. And by a staggering number, in 2050, one in three U.S. adults will have diabetes according to the CDC. "The trend was so clear and more obvious than I thought it would be," said senior author Dr. Phinit Phisitkul, an assistant clinical professor at the University of Iowa department of orthopedics and rehabilitation, according to HealthDay.  

If you are currently suffering from diabetes and need help with diabetic foot care, it is recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist like Dr. Alan Discont of Family Foot & Ankle Care, PC. Dr. Discont can help you manage your diabetic feet to ensure that they remain healthy, while also providing you with any treatment options if any problems do arise.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people of all ages each year. Diabetes damages blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. When damage occurs to nerves in the feet, they may be unable to send the proper signals to the peripheral nervous system, resulting in a condition known as neuropathy. Once a diabetic patient develops neuropathy, it is imperative that the feet are well taken care of to avoid possible amputation of the feet.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

- Regularly check your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet; socks shouldn’t be tight.
- Wear properly fitting shoes that are comfortable.

For more information on caring for your diabetic feet, visit our link below.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our two offices which are located in Sun Lakes or Chandler, AZ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read the full article on Diabetic Foot Care.