Diabetes Risk Factors Amputation

Diabetics have inherent risk factors for foot disease, such as infections and ulcers. In fact, approximately one in four diabetics will develop foot problems, which may include:

Loss of feeling in the feet (called sensory neuropathy).

Foot deformities such as bunions and hammertoes.

Peripheral vascular disease (poor circulation).

The high blood sugar of diabetes damages the nerves in your feet, resulting in loss of feeling. Diabetes also damages your vascular system, reducing blood flow to your legs and feet. Both can lead to foot problems, which may necessitate amputation if not treated. Diabetes is the leading cause of lower limb amputations.

There is good news, however. Most foot amputations can be prevented through proper care. If you have diabetes, the Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Exam at the Foot & Ankle Center is your first step in assuring your ongoing foot health. 

Remember, a Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Exam is different from the typical foot exam most podiatrists administer. Diabetes care is a specialty area within the field of podiatry. The diabetes experts at the Foot & Ankle Center will provide the results of your Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Exam to you and your podiatrist and primary care physician so together you can make informed decisions about your foot health. Just think of the Foot & Ankle Center as another member of your diabetes care team!

Want to learn more?

Watch Dr. Waskin's diabetic foot care videos .