Diabetes-Calluses, Foot Ulcers and Amputations

Corns and calluses are your body's protective reaction to regular pressure and friction. If it is excessive, the skin will break down and open into ulcer. Even though an ulcer might not hurt, it should be seen by your doctor right away. Neglecting ulcers can result in infections and possible amputations. Properly fitting shoes and orthotics will reduce pressures, thus eliminating the domino effect of callus to amputation.

Fact: A comprehensive foot care program can reduce amputation rates by up to 85%.

Diabetes-Poor Circulation

poor blood flow contributes to foot problems by reducing the amount of oxygen and nutrition supplied to the skin and other tissue, therefore causing injuries to heal poorly. Decreased circulation can also lead to swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs.

Fact: Exercise is good for circulation as it stimulates blood flow. Be sure to walk in good sturdy shoes.

Diabetes-Neuropathy

Although it can hurt, diabetic nerve damage can reduce your ability to feel heat, cold, pressure and pain. Those who are affected can develop minor cuts, scrapes, blisters, or pressure sores that they may not be aware of due to the insensitivity. If these minor injuries are left untreated, complications may result.

Fact: Damaged specialized nerves will impair aperson's balance and agility.

Diabetes

Of the 18.2 million people in the United States(or 6.3% of the population) who hav diavtes, it has been estimatd that narly 25% will develop foot-rlated problems.

Fact: There are an additional 41 million Americans that have pre-diabetes.

Foot problems most often happen when there is nerve damage, calld neuropathy. Poor blood flow can change the shape of your feet and toes causing problems. If your feet experience changes, be sure to check into theraputic comfort shoes, rather than forcing deformed fet and toes into regular shoes.

What Does The Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Program Cover?

Medicare will cover 80% of the cost of th following per calendar year:

• 1 pair of extra depth shoes
• 3 pair of heat molded inserts or 3 pair of custom fabricated inserts.
• If you are covered by both Medicare and medicaid there is NO COST to you.
• If you have secondary insurance there may be NO COST. Your foot care specialist can provide you with more details.
• If your Medicare coveragge is through a managed care program, and you meet the criteria, authorization and a prescription from your physician is necessary for complete coverage.

Do I Qualify for Diabetic Footwear under the Medicare Program?

To be eligible you must:

• Have Medicare as your primary insurance
• Be under the care of a physician for diabetes
• Have at least one of several foot conditions associated with diabetes:

Pr-ulcerative callous formation or peripheral neuropathy with a history of callous formation

Foot deformity

Poor circulation

History of previous foot ulceration

Previous amputation of the foot or part of the foot

Did you Know?.....................

Poorly fitting shoes are the primary reason people with diabetes are at increased risk for skin brakdown, foot ulceration and infection. Even a small cut or blistr can have serious consequences. Complications related to diabetes can result in amputation of the foot or leg. The good news is that patients with diabetes may be eligible for shoes covered by Medicare.

Diabetes Foot Notes

Take care of your diabetes

• Wash and check your feet every day.
• Wear shoes and socks at all times.
• use a pumice stone on corns and calluses-never use a sharp instrument
• Lotion your feet, but not btween your toes.
• Protect your feet from hot and cold.
• Exercise more-keep the blood flowing to your fet.
• Toenails require special care;see your podiatrist.
• Have your feet checked by your health professional.