Foot Amputations On Decline

A new study published in the journal Foot & Ankle International says that foot amputations due to diabetes have decreased.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2008, 700,000 people had limb amputations. Limb amputations from diabetics account for 60% of all amputations.

Although the number of foot amputations has decreased in the United States, the number of diagnosed diabetics has increased dramatically. The number of people diagnosed has tripled from 5.6 million in 1980 to 26.9 million in 2010. By 2050, one in every three Americans will have diabetes.

In the new study, researchers looked at data from 2000 to 2010 Medicare claims of toe, feet, and leg amputations. The scientists found that the number of lower and upper leg amputations decreased 29% in the last decade. This information surprised researchers.

"The trend was so clear and obvious than I thought it would be," said lead author Dr. Phinit Phisitkul, an assistant clinical professor at the University of Iowa department of orthopedics and rehabilitation.

While total amputations decreased, partial toe amputations did however increase, by 24%. On a positive note, podiatric treatments for the foot and ankle increased by as much as 143% during the time frame.

Researchers are hesitant to say exactly why the number of amputations has declined, but they do believe that better foot and ankle care for diabetics has been influential in helping them manage and fend off complications.

"We do know that better foot and ankle treatment is part of it though," Phisitkul said.

We'll come right out and say it though- podiatrists have a huge role in managing the diabetic foot and ankle! We are proud to help save the lives and limbs of diabetics across the country and help them maintain a sense of normalcy in their lives. Diabetics who follow the instructions of their endocrinologists and podiatrists are likely to have fewer wounds, ulcers, or sores that require amputation.

Reference: Nature World News

If you are a diabetic with a foot or ankle problem, call our Rocky Hill or Middletown office to make an appointment.

Jeffrey S. Kahn, DPM

Connecticut Foot Care Centers

Podiatrist in Rocky Hill and Middletown, CT

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