Foot Exams Reduce the Risk of Amputation

Most of my patients with diabetes know that good foot care is an essential part in managing this disease. But did you know that regular foot exams can actually reduce the risk of amputation from complications of diabetes?

Why Is Diabetes Dangerous for the Feet?

Diabetes often causes poor blood circulation because high levels of sugar in the blood can lead to hardening of the arteries. Because of poor circulation, any small cut, bruise or puncture wound in the feet can worsen into a sore and then a dangerous ulcer that won't heal properly. Even a blister can grow into a serious problem.

Now here's another catch - those with diabetes often develop peripheral neuropathy or nerve damage. With this condition, you may experience pain, burning or a tingling feeling in the feet. But you also may lose some of the sensation in your feet from neuropathy.

The combined result of these 2 problems? You may develop a foot injury that can worsen into a non-healing ulcer and you won't even know it! And an ulcer that doesn't heal can damage tissues and the underlying bone and eventually may require surgical removal - amputation - of a toe, foot or even your leg.

Regular Foot Exams Can Warn of Potentially Dangerous Injuries

Experts believe that regular foot exams can prevent up to 80% of amputations. However, very few individuals visit a podiatrist for a thorough exam.

We urge you to visit us at the Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. for a foot exam every year. If you have diabetes, you should come in for examination at least twice a year. 

Our complete exam will screen you for ulcers, the development of any abnormality and for loss of sensation. We'll use the latest technology to perform a comprehensive vascular, neurologic and orthopedic exam.

If we find anything problematic, we'll discuss a custom treatment plan just for you using our modern technology. It's essential that any wound be quickly treated for maximum healing. Once any wounds are healed, we'll keep in touch with frequent follow-ups to avoid future problems.

The first step is yours! Please contact our office as soon as possible to schedule this important foot exam. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Let Us Examine and Treat Your Feet and Ankles

Dr. James M. McKee, DPM, board certified podiatrist has the right experience to assess foot health in patients with diabetes and to treat any problems promptly and expertly. Please call us at 410-224-4448 to make an appointment at our office in Annapolis, MD. You can also request an appointment at the website. Don't let a suspicious foot condition worsen into a dangerous problem - call us today!