Why do so many people with Type 2 Diabetes require amputation at some point in their life? Type two Diabetes can potentially cause many complications. One of the most devastating is diabetic neuropathy. This is actually the Type 2 Diabetes doing damage and destruction to the nerves in the periphery nervous system. It happens most often in the legs and feet. The problem usually begins with a tingling sensation in the area. Eventually the tingling turns to pain or numbness. Another medical condition that Type two Diabetes causes in the feet is reduced circulation. In the extremities of the feet, the size of the blood vessels constrict due to diabetes. When these to risks combine, it can result in severe medical and health problems in the feet or lower legs. Consequently, that is when amputation may become an option.

How do you avoid getting to the point of an amputation with type 2 Diabetes ? Good footcare is very important. This means closely monitoring the feet for any possible signs of infection. It now means keeping them clean at all times. It now means wearing good supporting shoes and the proper quality support socks. It means treating any minor injury as a major one. If a minor injury happens in an area with nerve damage and poor circulation, infection becomes a real possibility. Subsequently, severe infection can then lead to gangrene. That, of course, could lead to amputation. Seeing your healthcare team about any injury to the foot is important for just that reason alone.

There are other ways to help prevent the need for amputation if you have type 2 diabetes. It is an undisputed fact that patients with Diabetes 2 should quit smoking since it also reduces the size of blood vessels in the body. Keep a very close eye on your blood sugar readings. Managing those levels will help keep Type two Diabetes damage to the nerves down to a minimum level. Get and then always stay physically active. This helps increase circulation to both the legs and feet. It can also help with your flexibility. Visit your physician regularly to monitor for any health problems. Get your weight under control. Extra weight on the legs and feet do not really help.

If you already have nerve damage or circulation issues in your feet, don’t think that amputation is inevitable. Taking good care of your feet is extremely important. Visit your doctor if you find sores developing on your feet. It is a scientifically accepted fact that individuals with Type two Diabetes must take extreme care with wearing shoes at all times. Loss of sensation may not let you know if you step on something that causes a wound. With tType two Diabetes, taking correct care of your feet is almost as essential as monitoring your blood sugar.