Diabetic Foot
As a foot and ankle specialist, a podiatrist plays an important role in the medical care of those with diabetes. Fifteen percent of all people with diabetes will develop open wounds [ulcerations] on their feet at some point in their lifetime. Twenty percent of those ulcerations will result in amputations. Podiatrists have documented success in the prevention of these amputations. The key is to see a podiatrist for a foot check up at least annually, preferably more often. Medicare has a diabetic shoe program which entitles you to receive free pair of shoes and 3 insoles every year. Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to diabetic feet.