Partial Foot Amputation From A Diabetic Foot Ulcer, That Couldn’t Happen To Me Right?
When I was young and first went to the dentist he would say ” If you don’t take care of your teeth they will go away.” I guess the same could be true for a diabetic patient and their feet. Most diabetics don’t realize how quickly a diabetic foot ulcer can lead to a partial amputation of their foot.
What is a Diabetic Foot Ulcer?
A diabetic foot ulcer is a sore on the foot of a diabetic. Some people don’t realize that they have a wound at first, and only notice it once it is infected. These infected wounds develop very quickly, and within a day or two you have a major diabetic foot infection.
I’m a Diabetic, but it’s not that big of a deal right???
DIABETES IS A BIG DEAL and eating right and keeping your blood sugar at a healthy level is a big part of your care. Diabetic foot ulcers are the most common reason for hospitalization in diabetics. Diabetes is the most common cause of non-traumatic lower leg amputations.IT IS A BIG DEAL!
Prevent DIABETIC FOOT ULCERS by watching your blood sugar levels. They should be:
- 70 – 130 mg/dL (before meals)
- Less than 180 mg/dL (1 – 2 hours after a meal)
They should NOT be:
- 200 mg/dL or more (uncontrolled diabetic with too much blood sugar)
- 70 mg/dL or less (not enough blood sugar)
As a diabetic, you are at a higher risk for conditions such as Peripheral Neuropathy, and Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD.) Each of these conditions can also cause you to have a diabetic foot ulcer.
What should I do?
All diabetics should schedule an annual appointment with Dr. Schlam for a basic diabetic foot exam. He can determine your risk level, and teach you ways to keep your feet healthy and wound free. If you have had a partial foot amputation we have special shoes that would fit you. Call Hollowbrook Foot Specialists at (845) 298 – 9074 or click here to schedule an appointment.
By: David Schlam
Hollowbrook Foot Specialists
Wappingers Falls, NY
(845) 298 – 9074
