Diabetic Limb Salvage Specialist

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is an umbrella term used to describe a group of diseases characterized by high blood glucose (sugar). Everyone needs blood glucose to survive; it fuels your brain and provides energy for the muscles and soft tissues throughout your body. However, if your blood sugar is too high for an extended period, it increases your risk of serious health problems, including permanent nerve damage (neuropathy) and heart disease.

How does diabetes affect my feet?

If you have diabetes, you’re also more likely to experience podiatry-related complications such as poor circulation and nerve damage. When left untreated, poor circulation may cause slow-healing wounds or ulcers to develop on your feet and ankles. If these ulcers continue to grow, or they become infected, amputation may be necessary to save your life. Diabetic limb salvage works to improve your health and well-being before any surgical intervention is needed.

When should I schedule a diabetic limb salvage appointment?

For diabetic limb salvage to work, you must seek treatment early on, before a wound becomes infected. If you have diabetes, make an appointment with the team at New York City Ankle & Foot if you experience any issues such as:

• Swelling
• Blisters
• Plantar warts
• Pain
• Active bleeding
• Ulcers
• Discoloration of your skin

You should also make a diabetic limb salvage appointment if you notice a foul odor coming from a wound. Diabetic limb salvage treatment options depend on the location and severity of the wound. 

What is diabetic limb salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is a branch of podiatry that takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating diabetic ulcers while reducing rates of amputation. At New York City Ankle & Foot, the team coordinates care with other medical specialists, including endocrinologists, wound care experts, and your general practitioner. This ensures a comprehensive care plan that monitors all aspects of your health, including your diet, exercise routine, and personal care plan. 

By participating in diabetic limb salvage treatment, you can better manage your diabetes and improve your quality of life. 

Am I a candidate for diabetic limb salvage?

Anyone with type 1, type 2, gestational, or prediabetes can benefit from diabetic limb salvage. Even if you’re relatively healthy, this type of treatment can provide you with key tips and insights to improve your health as a whole.

To learn more about diabetic limb salvage, request an appointment at New York City Ankle & Foot today by calling the office or using the online booking tool.