SATURDAY, Nov. 4, 2006 (HealthDay News) -- The estimated 20 million Americans with diabetes need to remember that simple foot care can reduce their risk of toe, foot or leg amputations, say experts at the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS).
People with diabetes are 10 times more likely to have a lower limb amputated than people who don't have the illness, which can cause poor blood circulation and nerve damage in the feet. This makes feet more vulnerable to ulcers, infections, deformities and brittle bones.
The ACFAS offers the following foot care tips for people with diabetes:
At the first sign of trouble, see a doctor. Early treatment can prevent foot problems from worsening and reduce the risk of amputations.
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month in the United States.
More information
The American Academy of Family Physicians has more about diabetes and foot care.