The Diabetic Foot

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder resulting from the body's inability to produce insulin (a hormone secreted by the pancreas that is essential for proper blood sugar utilization). Diabetics cannot convert blood sugar into a form that can be used by the cells, resulting in abnormally high blood sugar levels, circulatory problems, and nerve damage. Diabetes cannot be cured, but it can be treated and managed with proper medical care, dietary control, and regular exercise.

There are approximately 14 million diabetics in the United States, half of whom are probably unaware that they have the condition. Diabetes is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States.

Diabetes-related foot problems are the third most common reason for hospitalization and the leading cause of amputation in the lower leg and foot. Technology, research, and diligence by patients can improve this situation.

Diabetes often leads to peripheral neuropathy, a condition in which nerve function deteriorates in the body's extremities. This damage leads to a gradual loss of feeling in the hands, arms, legs, and feet. The patient may experience numbness, weakness, tingling in the extremities, shooting pains, or a burning sensation. An inability to sense pain in affected areas is most problematic because pain enables the patient to know when something is wrong. Without it, patients often do not seek timely treatment for cuts, bruises, burns, or blisters that heal poorly due to diabetes-related circulatory problems. Because of this, minor skin problems of the feet can worsen and become infected

Patients with diabetes should monitor blood glucose levels, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and see a physician or podiatrist regularly to be tested and treated for any abnormalities that develop. Diabetics must inspect their feet carefully every day, using their hands to feel for hard or dry skin, and a mirror to check the bottoms of the feet for redness or cracking. With the help of a podiatrist, they should have custom-molded orthotics and/or shoes made. These precautions can help prevent the feet from becoming ulcerated or infected.

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