Managing Diabetic Complications

There are over 30 million people in the US that are affected by diabetes. Whether it's you or someone you know that has been diagnosed, let's take a peek at the importance of social support, prosthetic technology to those facing limb loss, and proper foot care.

What is Diabetes?

There are two types of diabetes – type 1 and type 2.

Type 1 diabetes is not preventable. People with type 1 cannot produce their own insulin because their body has destroyed the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.

With an estimated 90-95% of people, type 2 is frequently developed in those who have a genetic predisposition, have underlying health problems that prevent active and healthy lifestyles, and have adopted an unhealthy diet and eating habits.

Why is Social Support so important?

Social support has actually been proven to reduce the psychological and physiological consequences of stress, and could enhance immune function. This could, in turn, help improve the self management of diabetes. While living with diabetes can feel isolation at times, finding a support group can allow for connection to others having a similar experience. Find support groups through your physician, church, or even through social media. A quick google search can help you find people in your area that you can lean on and learn from. Use your resources!

Is foot health manageable?

Yes it is! If you are experiencing complications with your feet due to diabetes, you are not alone. A large percentage of people with diabetes experience medical issues with their feet.

Custom inserts and shoes can be prescribed to take pressure off specific areas of your foot to help prevent sores and painful pressure points, and to help heal any sores or issues. Proper diabetic foot care is made to fit your feet and designed to give cushion while providing support for the heel, ankle, and arch of the foot. Proper foot care can help avoid issues that may lead to amputation. It is important to practice healthy hygiene habits like thoroughly cleaning your feet and wearing clean socks every day. This can help you stay active and engaged in your daily activities, and is designed to reduce complications related to diabetes. Your mobility and quality of life depend upon close monitoring of your feet, proper shoe selection, lifestyle choices, and a commitment to your treatment plan.

How is Diabetes related to limb loss?

The causes of amputation in people with diabetes is often complex, and is the result of multiple issues in the feet. These may include:

• Neuropathy - a loss of sensation in the feet from nerve damage

• Poor circulation in the feet from the effects of diabetes on the arteries and small blood vessels

• Increased risk of infections in the feet and toes and decreased healing ability

Post amputation surgery, healing, and rehabilitation will be the next steps in recovery. Working with an Integrity prosthetist who is trained in the fitting, design, and fabrication of a prosthesis could be life-changing!

Managing Diabetic Complications is Easier with Integrity

Research shows that those with diabetes who are actively engaged with their prosthetist and rehabilitation, experience higher levels of quality of life and mobility.

It is imperative to talk with your prosthetist about your expectations, concerns, and goal in order to address your specific needs.

Interested in more information about living with limb loss and diabetes? Reach out to our caring team at Integrity to get more information about improving your quality of life with a prosthesis or custom inserts.