Elmira, NY

(607) 734-4582

Horseheads, NY

(607) 739-8318

Waverly, NY

(607) 565-8128

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Diabetes and Your Feet

According to the American Diabetes Association, about 15.7 million people (5.9 percent of the United States population) have diabetes. Nervous system damage (also called neuropathy) affects about 60 to 70 percent of people with diabetes and is a major complication that may cause diabetics to lose feeling in their feet or hands. Foot problems are a big risk in diabetics. Diabetics must constantly monitor their feet or face severe consequences, including amputation. The 5-year mortality rate for a diabetic neuropathic foot ulcer is worse than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. With a diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a shoe that's too tight can cause a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slow to heal. When your wound is not healing, it's at risk for infection. As a diabetic, your infections spread quickly. If you have diabetes, you should inspect your feet every day. Look for puncture wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, cuts and nail problems. Get someone to help you, or use a mirror.

When your feet become numb, they are at risk for becoming deformed. One way this happens is through ulcers. Open sores may become infected. Another way is the bone condition Charcot (pronounced "sharko") foot. This is one of the most serious foot problems you can face. It warps the shape of your foot when your bones fracture and disintegrate, and yet you continue to walk on it because it doesn't hurt. You should keep from putting your weight on the Charcot foot. Surgery is considered if your deformity is too severe for a brace or shoe.

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Elmira Office

Monday - Friday:

8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday, Sunday:

Closed

Horseheads Office

Monday, Friday:

8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday - Thursday:

8:30 am | 5:00 pm + evening hours

Saturday, Sunday:

Closed

Waverly Office

Monday - Friday:

8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday, Sunday:

Closed