The majority of Lower Extremity diabetic amputations are caused by either a wound or infection that fails to heal. Many times the infection starts in the foot & if left untreated can quickly spread up the leg leading to a (BK) below knee amputation or even an (AK) above knee amputation. It is vitally important that diabetics check their feet on a daily basis & monitor them for any changes such as redness, swelling, odor, calluses, wounds or anything else that's out of place. It also extremely important that they have their feet checked regularly by their physician.
Statistics show that 1 in 4 diabetic patients will at some point develop a foot ulcer. Diabetic foot ulcers are normally caused by pressure. This pressure can be the result of a bony prominence on the foot, an abnormal gait pattern, a foot deformity or even ankle, leg or back pain.
Approximately 65% of foot ulcers are caused by improper footwear. Shoes that either don't fit correctly or that offer the proper support. Once an ulcer develops around 55% of them will become infected. These infections lead to 85,000 diabetic related amputations per year.
Approximately 65% of foot ulcers are caused by improper footwear. Shoes that either don't fit correctly or that offer the proper support. Once an ulcer develops around 55% of them will become infected. These infections lead to 85,000 diabetic related amputations per year.