Why diabetics lose feet

Amputation is a major complication of diabetes. If you have diabetes, your doctor has likely recommended that you check your feet each day, but you may not have known why. Read on to learn how diabetes can lead to amputation and how to help prevent it. In some cases, diabetes can lead to peripheral artery disease PAD.

PAD causes your blood vessels to narrow and reduces blood flow to your legs and feet. It may also cause nerve damage, known as peripheral neuropathy.

This could prevent you from feeling pain. You may continue putting pressure on the affected area, which can cause it to grow and become infected.

Reduced blood flow can slow wound healing. It can also make your body less effective at fighting infection. As a result, your wound may not heal. Tissue damage or death gangrene may occur, and any existing infection may spread to your bone. If the infection cannot be stopped or the damage is irreparable, amputation may be necessary. The most common amputations in people with diabetes are the toes, feet, and lower legs. In , 73, American adults who have diabetes and are over age 20 had amputations.

Waiting too long to seek treatment can severely limit your options. There are several minimally invasive peripheral artery disease treatment options you can look into, including procedures such as, atherectomy or angioplasty and stenting. Diabetic foot ulcers are serious and can lead to amputation. Sources: i Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Euro J Vasc and Endovasular Surg, World J Diabetes, , 6 1 : p. Vascular Health Risk Management.

Clinical practice. Look at the top, sides, bottom, and between the toes for changes in color or breaks in the skin. Treat your feet by wearing shoes in and out of the house. If you cannot cut your nails, or if you have calluses, corns, ingrown nails, or toenail fungus, consider making an appointment with a podiatrist. Read frequently asked questions about diabetic foot and more advice on preventing wounds and amputation here. Read more about Mr. Rattray's story.

Of the many complications caused by diabetes, those that affect your feet are among the most common and significant. Whatever the case, you want to avoid problematic bunions from developing. These tips can help! While toenail fungus may not be the most serious problem, the infection is stubborn once it takes hold. Read on to learn more. You Might Also Enjoy Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Syndicate. Diabetes and Your Feet.

Minus Related Pages. Preventing Nerve Damage. Smoking reduces blood flow to the feet. Follow a healthy eating plan , including eating more fruits and vegetables and less sugar and salt. Get physically active —10 to 20 minutes a day is better than an hour once a week.

Take medicines as prescribed by your doctor. Get to the bottom of any foot problems by using a mirror or asking for help. To receive updates about diabetes topics, enter your email address: Email Address. What's this.