Leon Watkins, D.P.M.

Heart disease, stroke, blindness and kidney failure aren't the only complications you should think about if you have diabetes. Foot problems may not sound serious, but they're the leading cause of hospitalizations for diabetes-related complications.

"People with diabetes are at greater risk for foot ulcers, infections and amputation," says Leon Watkins, D.P.M., a board-certified podiatrist on staff at Chalmette Medical Center. "Once those with diabetes have a lower extremity amputation, they're more likely to have a second amputation or die from their illness."

Why feet are at risk
Over time, the high blood-sugar levels associated with diabetes take their toll on your body. They can damage blood vessels, impair circulation and harm the tissues, nerves and muscles. When these changes occur in your legs and feet, they can:

• Decrease circulation and hamper your body's natural healing ability
• Cause nerve damage that may lead to a tingling feeling or a loss of sensation that can make it difficult for you to feel foot ulcers or wounds
• Weaken the small muscles in your feet, which can increase your risk for hammertoes and other deformities
• Alter your skin so that it's more prone to cracks or splits, athlete's foot and other skin disorders

Preventing foot disease
Like many diabetes-related complications, foot disorders aren't inevitable. Work with your doctor to control your diabetes and take these additional steps to protect your feet:

• Don't walk around barefoot.
• Check your feet daily for sores, ulcers or infections.
• Keep your toenails trimmed.
• Avoid subjecting your feet to extremes in temperatures. For example, test the water temperature of a tub or bath with your hand before stepping in.
• Use a moisturizer on your feet, but not between the toes.
• Don't rub your feet excessively.
• Wear shoes with round toes and semirigid soles.
• Seek care immediately if you notice any wounds on your feet.
• Have a yearly evaluation by a foot specialist. Your doctor will want to see you more frequently if you're at high risk for or you have foot disease.
• Ask your doctor about other preventive measures, including specially designed shoes or braces that can relieve pressure on the vulnerable areas of your feet or professional care for calluses and corns.

You'll need aggressive treatment from a team of diabetes specialists if you develop acute or chronic foot disease.

"Treatment for foot disorders can range from antibiotic therapy and wound care to surgery to reconstruct deformed bones or remove infected tissue or bone," Dr. Watkins says. "Our goal is to help people keep their feet healthy so they can stay mobile. People who are physically active are better able to control their disease and enjoy their lives."

For an appointment with Dr. Watkins, call 271-9982.

For more information about diabetic foot disorders, visit the American Podiatric Medical Association Web site at www.apma.org or call 1-800-ASK-APMA.

9001 Patricia Street, P.O. Box 1727, Chalmette, LA 70044 (504) 620-6000