Here is an article on the limb and life saving work being done by Dr. David Armstrong, a podiatrist in Tucson, Arizona. Amputation is a serious problem - "At least half of the (diabetic) people who are amputated are dead in three to five years," says podiatric surgeon Dr. Armstrong. "Up to 80 percent in some studies." Elevated blood sugar in diabetics can harm blood flow and your immune response, leaving your feet vulnerable to infections. These infections can spread to other parts of your body and become life thretening.
The easiest and most cost-effective way to diabetic amputation prevention is an annual diabetic foot exam performed by a podiatrist. Preventative podiatric visits can reduce diabetic foot complications - including amputation! Just ONE visit to a podiatrist reduces the risk of lower limb amputation, but yearly exams are best.