How to Prevent Foot and Toe Amputations in Diabetics

Foot and toe amputations are serious health concerns. An amputation can be life-altering. Our Annapolis amputation prevention center is focused on limb salvage and proper foot wound treatment. Our podiatrists are experts at identifying and treating foot wounds that can lead to amputations. Our Center of Excellence can save your limbs and give you back your life.

It is imperative to prevent diabetic foot and toe amputations since diabetes can result in foot issues such as neuropathy and impaired circulation. The following are crucial actions that diabetics should take to avoid amputations in their feet and toes:

• Control Blood Sugar Levels: To avoid issues related to diabetes, appropriately control your blood sugar levels. To maintain your blood sugar within target ranges, adhere to your healthcare provider's recommendations for medication, insulin, and lifestyle modifications.
• Regular Medical Check-Ups: Make an appointment for routine care at your podiatrist, which should include a podiatry examination. They can assist with diabetes monitoring and early detection of any possible problems.
• Examine Your Feet Every Day: Every day, look for any wounds, sores, blisters, or indications of infection on your feet. Utilize a mirror if required. Catching problems early can prevent them from getting worse.
• Maintain Dry and Clean Feet: Pay particular attention to the space between your toes. While too much moisture might cause fungal infections, moisturize your feet, but refrain from putting moisturizer in the spaces between your toes.
• Trim Toenails Carefully: Make sure to cut your toenails evenly and not too short. To avoid ingrown toenails, refrain from cutting into the corners.
• Appropriate Footwear: Put on cozy, form-fitting shoes that offer adequate protection and support. Steer clear of open-toed shoes and high heels. Make sure that your shoes do not pinch or rub against your feet.
• Protect Your Feet: Always keep your feet protected from extremely high or low temperatures, and use caution while being barefoot. To shield your feet from the sun, apply sunscreen.
• Manage Your Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Since these can aggravate poor circulation, keep an eye on your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Manage Your Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Poor circulation can worsen foot issues, so it's important to keep an eye on your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Give Up Smoking: Smoking can further restrict your extremities' blood supply. If you smoke, get assistance quitting.
• Exercise Frequently: To enhance circulation, partake in frequent physical exercise. The ideal fitness program for your unique needs will be determined after speaking with your podiatrist.
• Appropriate Wound Care Treatment: Treat any scrapes, sores, or wounds on your foot with a clean, sterile bandage after giving them a quick wash with light soap and water. If there are any indications of infection or non-healing wounds, visit a wound care specialist immediately.
• Handle Neuropathy: If you suffer from diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage, collaborate with your physician to treat the illness and prevent complications.

If you have a wound that is not healing, appears infected, or seems to be getting worse, we can help. Our amputation prevention experts are podiatrists focused on limb salvage and wound care treatments. Make an appointment to see how we can help!