Diabetes Self-Management Articles

These articles cover a wide range of subjects, from the most basic aspects of diabetes care to the nitty-gritty specifics.

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Foot problems are one of the most notorious potential consequences of diabetes. If unnoticed or untreated, even a small cuts or ingrown toenail can develop into a bigger problem, such as an infection or foot ulcer. Developing good foot-care habits, inspecting your feet regularly, and wearing properly fitted, comfortable footwear can help you prevent foot problems. The articles in this section tell you how.


Common Foot Problems and Their Solutions by David G. Armstrong, DPM, PhD

People with diabetes are often told to pay close attention to their feet — and for good reason. While having diabetes doesn’t make it more likely that you’ll injure your feet in the first place, having certain common diabetes complications raises the risk of minor foot problems becoming major foot problems if not treated promptly…


Foot Care by J. C. Tanenbaum, D.P.M.

Even with diabetes, your feet can last a lifetime, and they stand a better chance of doing so if you treat them with tender, loving care. That includes giving them a daily inspection for cuts and abrasions as well as asking your doctor to examine them…


How to Choose Footwear by Roy H. Lidtke, D.P.M., C.Ped.

Ask 10 people what they look for in a pair of shoes, and you may well get 10 different answers. But ask 10 podiatrists what they recommend in shoes for people with diabetes, and you’ll probably get about the same answer 10 times, with “good…

Also inside: Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Program

Taking Steps Toward Healthy Feet by Laura Hieronymus, M.S.Ed., A.P.R.N., B.C.-A.D.M., C.D.E., and Belinda O'Connell, M.S., R.D., C.D.E.

Diabetes is notorious for causing foot problems. In fact, it is the number one cause of lower limb amputations in the United States. In 2001, the latest year for which statistics are available, some 82,000 amputations—over half of all…

Also inside: For More Information, How Can I Get My Doctor to Help Me Take Care of My Feet?, What Can I Do to Take Care of My Feet?

Statements and opinions expressed on this Web site are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the publishers or advertisers. The information provided on this Web site should not be construed as medical instruction. Consult appropriate health-care professionals before taking action based on this information.

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