Are you at risk for a diabetic foot ulcer?
What is a diabetic foot ulcer?
A diabetic foot ulcer is a wound or open sore that is most often located on the bottom of the foot. Diabetic foot ulcers occur in 15% of patients with diabetes. If not treated you could be hospitalized with infection or another complication. Hospitalization happens in 6% of patients with a diabetic foot ulcer.
In the United States, diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic amputations of lower extremities. In patients with diabetes, 14-24% of them with foot ulcers will require an amputation. 85% of diabetes related amputations are caused by foot ulceration.
Foot ulcers are preventable!
Anyone with diabetes can develop a foot ulcer. Your risk of a foot ulcer is greater if you:
- Are Native American, African American, Hispanic, or an older man.
-Using insulin.
-Have a diabetes related kidney, heart, or eye disease.
-Are overweight.
-Using alcohol or tobacco.
If you are at risk of developing a foot ulcer or you have one. Contact Us atOur Bismarck Office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Brian Gale, DPM, FACFAS. Or go online to Appointment Request.
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