Patients with Diabetes Can Avoid Amputation

Amputation

Did you know April was Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month? Diabetes-related foot ulcers can be so severe that they may require amputation of a limb if left unattended. Amputation rates have been observed to be reduced by more than half when complete foot care programs are used, which consist of early detection and assessment of abnormalities, foot care education, preventative treatment, and referral to experts.

Treatment Options

Clinical assessments of the entire body should be performed on diabetic patients rather than only treating them locally. According to this viewpoint, a multidisciplinary strategy encompassing both medicinal and surgical treatment options should be used. It could be successful in reducing the rate of major amputations and even preventing them.

Effective removal techniques that are given at the same time, the use of small amputations for tissue necrosis, lowering infection stress with the right medication, and conventional as well as unconventional treatments may help lower the number of amputation levels and save limbs.

If you develop a foot ulcer, you should seek medical attention right away. Foot ulcers are the most common cause of lower limb and foot amputations. Tissues and bones are significantly damaged by an ulcer that will not heal and could necessitate amputation.

Diabetes and Amputation Risk Factors

Diabetes can put some people at more risk than others. The following factors increase the chance of amputation:

  • Elevated blood sugar levels
  • Being a smoker
  • Nerve damage
  • Foot problems such as corns
  • Restricted blood circulation
  • Foot ulcers
  • Kidney disease

Diabetes Control to Prevent Amputation

Keeping your blood sugar under control is the best defense against amputation and other serious diabetic consequences. You may accomplish this in a number of ways, including:

  • Consuming lean protein sources and a nutrient-dense diet.
  • Limiting items with excessive sugar
  • Exercising for at least 30 minutes each day
  • Taking insulin and other diabetic medications as prescribed by your doctor
  • Practicing good foot hygiene may help you avoid sores or ulcers.

In order to avoid foot issues, it is essential to take the following into consideration:

  • Inspect your feet regularly. Keep an eye out for swelling, discoloration, blisters, bruises, and redness.
  • Ask someone else to inspect your feet if you are unable to do so.
  • Examine the sensation in your feet on a regular basis.
  • Check frequently to discover whether your feet can detect cold or warm temperatures.
  • Wear socks without elastic bands that are thin, clean, and dry.
  • Keep the circulation going through massage and compression therapy.
  • Consult your podiatrist immediately if you experience any foot discomfort.

At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we are here to address all your foot concerns. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.