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June 4, 2007 -- More than 18 million American adults have diabetes
— a chronic autoimmune disease in which the pancreas stops
producing insulin, the hormone that enables people to turn food
into energy.
With diabetes being such a common problem, Kimball
Medical Center podiatrist Jasen Langley, D.P.M., AACFAS, reminds
those with the condition that following simple foot care tips can
reduce their risk of toe, foot or leg amputations.
“People with diabetes are 10 times more likely
to have a lower limb amputated than people without diabetes,”
says Dr. Langley, whose office is in Howell. “The disease
can cause poor blood circulation and nerve damage in the feet, making
them vulnerable to developing ulcers, infections, deformities and
brittle bones. “
Dr. Langley points to these foot care dips developed
by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons for people with
diabetes:
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Inspect feet daily for injuries that could lead to dangerous
ulcers.
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Gently wash feet in lukewarm water.
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Moisturize feet, avoiding the area between the toes.
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Never trim corns or calluses; this can lead to serious infections.
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Inspect the inside of shoes before wearing.
“People with diabetes must always be vigilant, and should
see a podiatrist at the first sign of trouble,” says Dr. Langley,
who with his colleague Hal Ornstein, D.P.M., of Affiliated Foot
and Ankle Center, has been providing foot and ankle care for Howell
and the surrounding community for more than 17 years “Early
treatment can keep diabetic foot problems from progressing, and
reduce the risk of amputations.”
For those living with diabetes, Kimball Medical Center offers comprehensive
diabetes education classes and monthly support groups through the
Center for Healthy Living, located on the hospital’s Lakewood
campus. These sessions are designed to help individuals manage
their diabetes by providing education and continued support.
To learn more about the Center for Healthy Living, or for a referral
to a Kimball Medical Center foot and ankle surgeon,
call 888-SBHS-123 (888-724-7123).
CONTACT: Kathleen Horan
Public Relations and Marketing
732-557-3909
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