According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, over 30 million people in the United States have diabetes and approximately 7 million have the disease but have not been diagnosed yet. The most common reason a person with diabetes is admitted to the hospital is for foot problems.

Diabetes can have a significant impact on your feet and the American Podiatric Medical Association recommends that diabetics see their podiatrist every 6 months. This exam should be a part of your comprehensive team approach in controlling diabetes.

Diabetic foot ulcers occur in approximately 15% of diabetic patients. Out of those patients, 6% will be hospitalized with an infection related to the ulcer. In addition, 14-24% will require an amputation. After an amputation, the chance of another amputation is as high as 50% within the next 3-5 years! According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, including a podiatrist in your diabetic care reduces the risk of a lower limb amputation up to 85% and lowers the risk of hospitalization by 24%. The key to helping prevent amputation is early recognition and intervention.

Daily foot checks are very important as a diabetic. Check your feet daily for any cuts, blisters, redness, or cracks. If you are unable to see the bottom of your feet you can get someone to help you or place a mirror on the floor and hover your foot over it. If you notice anything unusual, please contact your podiatrist right away.

Our doctors are able to help you in all aspects of diabetic foot care and treatment of the diabetic foot. If you have diabetes, please give our offices a call at (516) 869-3300- Manhasset, (631) 869-3300 - Huntington, (718) 639-0499 Maspeth, (516) 681-8866 - Plainview.

Let us help you keep your feet healthy!