People with diabetes need to take special care of their feet.
Neuropathy and blood vessel disease, both increase the risk of foot ulcers. The
nerves to the feet are the longest in the body and are most often affected by
neuropathy. Because of the loss of sensation caused by neuropathy, sores or
injuries to the feet may not be noticed and may become ulcerated.
Diabetic Neuropathy can cause insensitivity or a loss of ability to feel pain,
heat and cold. Diabetics suffering from neuropathy can develop minor cuts,
scrapes, blisters, or pressure sores that they may not be aware of due to the
insensitivity.
Up to 60% of diabetics may experience neuropathy. It is estimated that 1 out of
every 6 patients with neuropathy will develop foot ulcers and of those, 1 in 6
will eventually require amputation.
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