Diabetic? Don't forget

to have feet checked

Alex Cocco, MD

Wound Healing Center at Ball Memorial Hospital

Q. I recently was diagnosed with Diabetes, am I at risk to lose a foot or leg?

A. More than 60 percent of nontraumatic lower-limb amputations in the United States occur among people with diabetes so its important that people with Diabetes take care of themselves. The American Podiatric Medical Association estimates that 15 percent of diabetics will experience a chronic foot wound at some point and up to one in four of those patients will require an amputation. Even foot wounds that aren’t that severe can seriously limit walking and day-to-day activities and if not treated can progress to a very serious stage.

Q. What should I do to prevent foot ulcers or other potential problems with my feet as a result of Diabetes?
A. You should always schedule regular visits with your physician and at the minimum make sure your feet are examined by a medical professional four times a year. There a several simple things that can make a big difference. Washing your feet, changing shoes twice a day and inspect your feet daily for blisters cuts and scratches are all important daily activities. You should also never wear shoes without socks and avoid socks with seams or those that have been mended. Socks should be properly fitted and made of cotton or wool and always be changed daily. If any redness, blisters or wounds develop on your feet see a healthcare professional and make sure they know you have diabetes.

Q. If I do develop a wound what treatments are typically offered?
A. Every wound has its unique set of circumstances. The Wound Healing Center at BMH works to treat all types of wounds including chronic foot ulcers using the latest technology including two hyperbaric oxygen chambers. During hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the pressurized chamber compresses oxygen molecules to a smaller size so that they may pass through the plasma to the body more easily and speed healing.

The Wound Healing Center at BMH is offering a free foot screening, 3-5 p.m., this Thursday, December 7 at the Wound Healing Center located at 2901 W. Jackson Street in Muncie. For more information, call (765) 751-5010.

Alex Cocco, MD, is Medical Director, Wound Healing Center in Muncie, for more information, call (765) 751-5010 or info@chsmail.org.

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