Partial Foot Amputation
Learn About Partial Foot and Toe Amputation
People with diabetes are more prone to
partial foot amputation because they may be suffering from nerve damage and/or poor circulation. Partial foot and
toe amputation is often caused by infection.
People with diabetes are prone to
neuropathy, which is a type of nerve damage. Neuropathy causes a loss of sensation in the feet, which often causes the feet and legs to feel numb. Because of this numbness, you may not feel when your toes and feet become irritated or infected. Untreated infection or repeated irritation can lead to partial foot amputation or toe amputation.
Poor circulation can also lead to partial foot or toe amputation because it reduces your body's ability to heal itself. If you have poor circulation in your feet, a tiny cut or abrasion can go unnoticed and cause infection.
Prevent Partial Foot and Toe Amputation
You can help prevent partial foot and toe by taking care of your at-risk feet. Always talk to a health care provider about any foot problems no matter how minor. Your doctor may recommend that you wear protective footwear such as diabetic socks to help protect your feet from irritations or abrasions that can cause infection. You might also consider using moisturizing lotions or other skin care products to treat dry skin on your feet where bacteria may form and cause infection.
Visit our section to learn about the everyday things you can do to protect your feet and help prevent partial foot amputation or toe amputation.
