WikiAnswers: Can diabetes cause amputation?

WikiAnswers: Can diabetes cause amputation?

Discussion on 'Can diabetes cause amputation?'
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(1) On November 12, 2008 at 3:52 pm Starmac [0] said:


Yes, diabetes is one of the leading causes of lower extremity amputation. It is absolutely necesesary that diabetics control their blood glucose levels and that they examine their feet daily and take extra care of their feet. Diabetics often have poor blood circulation in the extremities and even a small ulcer, sore or cut can easily become infected, and neuropathy (nerve damage) can cause the diabetic not to feel pain in proportion to the amount of injury or infection they may have.

About 60% of amputations in the US are the result of diabetes, and up to 24% of Diabetics are at risk for limb loss, according to the ADA, and the risk increases with age.