Special foot care for diabetes By Barbara Floria, Pure Matters
“Foot wounds are the most common diabetes-related cause for
hospitalization," says David G. Armstrong, D.P.M., Ph.D., a
podiatric surgeon in Chicago. Foot wounds in a person with
diabetes can also lead to amputation, he says. “Fortunately,
people with this disease often can prevent these life-
threatening wounds with daily foot examinations,” Dr. Armstrong
says. Here's what you can do to help prevent foot problems: -
Take care of your diabetes. Work with your health care team to
keep your blood glucose in your target range. - Look over your
feet daily. Check for sores, cuts, bruises, and toenail changes.
Use a mirror to look under your feet if you need to. “Call or
see your health care provider if you have cuts or breaks in the
skin, have an ingrown nail or if your foot changes color or
shape, or becomes less sensitive,” Dr. Armstrong says. “See your
foot-care specialist immediately if you detect a new lesion or
if your foot becomes swollen, red, o