Neshoba Wound Care Clinic staffed by Racheal Page, CFNP
Neshoba Health Moments
Protect Your Feet: What You Need to Know About Diabetes and Wounds
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to focus on foot health. Diabetes can affect your feet and lead to serious wounds, which are one of the leading causes of limb loss.
The Facts You Should Know:
Every hour, 10 people with diabetes in the U.S. lose a limb due to complications.
Globally, a lower limb is lost to diabetes every 30 seconds.
If you have diabetes and lose one limb, there’s a 55% chance you may lose the other within 2–3 years.
Nearly half of people with an amputation will face serious health problems in the same time frame.
While these numbers are alarming, early care can make a huge difference. With the right treatment and attention from our Wound Care Center, you can heal faster and lower your risk of serious complications.
Why Diabetes Causes Foot Wounds:
Diabetes can make it harder for your body to heal because:
High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves.
Poor circulation slows healing.
Nerve damage (neuropathy) may prevent you from feeling cuts, blisters, or sores, which can turn into serious wounds.
About 60% of people with diabetes develop nerve damage in their feet, increasing the risk of foot ulcers. Poor circulation and foot deformities can make these problems worse.
How to Prevent Foot Problems:
Stop smoking to improve circulation.
Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or unusual changes.
Wash and dry your feet daily, especially between toes.
Trim toenails carefully.
Wear clean, dry socks and properly fitting shoes.
See your doctor regularly, at least once a year.
Exercise and eat healthy to improve circulation and blood sugar control.
We’re Here to Help:
If you notice foot problems or wounds that won’t heal, don’t wait. Early treatment prevents bigger complications. At Neshoba Wound Care Center, our team specializes in diabetes-related foot care to help you heal faster and protect your health.