Don't Be Defeated By Diabetes

BINGHAMTON, NY - Close to 4,000 diabetics in New York State will experience a serious complication associated with diabetes this year. This complication is called lower extremity amputation (LEA). According to the New York State Department of Health, Broome County will see close to 50 amputations; Tioga, Chenango, Otsego and Delaware counties an estimated 10 amputations each.

Nerve damage, circulation problems and infections are some of the reasons why improper foot care can result in amputations. "There are ways to reduce the risk of amputations by practicing good foot health," says Mary McFadden, Supervising Public Health Educator of the Southern Tier Healthy Living Partnership's Diabetes Prevention and Control Program for the Broome County Health Department.

It is helpful to understand why foot problems happen. Nerve damage can cause loss of feeling in feet. Sometimes nerve damage can deform or change the shape of your feet, which means your regular shoes will not fit properly. Ill-fitting shoes can cause friction and pressure against the feet, which can lead to blisters, sores, or ulcers forming. Poor circulation causes these injuries to heal slowly, opening up the opportunity for infection.

Signs of foot problems range from tingling or burning sensations, to loss of feeling. There may be temperature changes or color changes and feet may feel very dry and cracked. Toenails may turn thick and yellow and fungus may start to grow between the toes.

If blisters, sores, ulcers, infected corns or ingrown toenails are apparent, a visit to the health care provider or foot doctor is necessary.

"Prevention and early detection of foot problems, can result in improved quality of life for diabetics as well as the general population," says McFadden.

Following these important "foot steps" could significantly decrease the risk of having an amputation due to diabetes:

• Check feet each day;
• Wash feet every day, do not soak;
• Use moisturizer on tops and bottoms of feet only (between toes can lead to germ growth);
• Trim your toenails carefully after washing them, follow the natural curve of your toes;
• Don't cut corns or calluses, ask health care provider for assistance;
• Protect feet from heat or cold;
• Wear shoes and socks always; and
• Be physically active to increase circulation.

To learn more about foot care for people with diabetes, call the Southern Tier Healthy Living Partnership's Diabetes Prevention and Control Program toll free at 1.877.276.1019.

CONTACT:
Mary McFadden Supervising Public Health Educator,
Broome County Health Department, 607.778.3929
email: mmcfadden@co.broome.ny.us

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