The effect of diabetes on your feet
- Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by impaired glucose metabolism resulting in elevated glucose levels.
- Diabetes affects over 29 million Americans and that number is rising.
- An elevated blood glucose leads to damaged neurons. This can result in the lack of sensation –or a condition known as “sensory neuropathy.”
- Damaged neurons can also result in “autonomic neuropathy” which affects the body’s ability to regulate involuntary functions such as sweating and blood flow.
- If blood flow is impaired, then essential components such as oxygen and nutrients don’t get to the tissues furthest from the heart –the feet! These conditions, often along with abnormal pressures on the bottom of the feet, can lead to diabetic ulcers.
- Diabetics have a 25% life time incidence of foot ulcers and a 5-year recurrence rate of 28-51%
- 85% of all amputations are a direct result of diabetic foot ulcers
- People with Diabetes and kidney disease have a 10 times higher likelihood of lower extremity amputation
At The Center for Foot Care, we have in-office testing available to evaluate the health of your blood flow (circulation) as well as the health of your nerves. Based on these simple, non-painful tests, we can determine if your circulation needs improvement and we can decide how best to improve or reverse your nerve damage. Early detection is key to success. Let us help you to keep your feet healthy!
For more information on the effects of Diabetes on your feet, read my e-book.
