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Diabetes typically occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or the insulin is not able to perform its normal functions. Insulin is a substance produced from the pancreas gland that helps process the food we eat and turns it into energy. Diabetes is a serious disease that can affect the entire body – including the feet.
Why feet?
Approximately 25% of those diagnosed with diabetes will develop foot problems – the number one reason for hospital visits among people with diabetes. People with diabetes often suffer from artery or nerve disease, which affects the feet in several ways.Foot problems most often happen when there is nerve damage in the feet, called neuropathy. Poor blood flow from arterial disease, or changes in the shape of your feet or toes, may also cause problems. Nerve damage can cause you to loose feeling in your feet. You may not feel a pebble inside your sock that is causing a sore. You may not feel a blister caused by poorly fitted shoes. Foot injuries such as these can cause skin ulcers, which can eventually lead to an amputation. Properly fitted therapeutic shoes and custom inserts can prevent these problems for many people. Keeping your blood glucose (sugar) in good control, taking care of your feet every day and the right pair of therapeutic shoes can help you avoid serious foot problems.
If you have diabetes and certain qualifying foot conditions, you could be eligible for a pair of shoes and shoe inserts to help with your foot health. Ask your Health Care Professional or call us for details. |
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