Amputation prevention and diabetes

Diabetes is the leading cause of amputation of the lower limbs. And problems with their feet are the most frequent reasons for hospitalization in patients with diabetes. Many of these amputations and hospitalizations could be prevented through simple preventive foot care. If you have diabetes, you should ask your doctor during routine exams for foot check-ups as well. Other steps you can take to have healthy feet include:

quitting smoking (ask your doctor for help if you are having problems quitting)
checking your blood sugar levels carefully
eating a healthy, balanced diet
being physically active to maintain strength, flexibility, and blood flow to damaged areas and to control pain (good exercises include bicycling, swimming, and aqua aerobics)
seeing your doctors regularly
controlling your weight
checking feet each day for small cuts or blisters, since most diabetic foot problems begin with the sores on the skin
checking with doctors before using heating pads or electric blankets to avoid burning your skin, since feelings in your limbs could be lost