Approximately 23.6 million children and adults in the United States – 7.8% of the population – have diabetes.

• 25% of diabetic patients develop foot problems related to the disease. 

• More than 60% of nontraumatic lower-limb amputations occur in people with diabetes.

• Most foot complications occur due to diabetic nerve damage (neuropathy), which lessens the ability to feel pain, heat, cold, and pressure. 

• This loss of protective sensation can lead to ulcers.

• Inability to resolve ulcers lead to onset of gangrene.

• It is estimated that each year more than 50% of diabetic amputations could have been prevented by proper foot care management. 

• To help prevent foot problems related to this disease, more and more insurance companies are covering members to receive diabetic/therapeutic shoes and inserts.

Want to learn more about diabetes and how to treat it?

Visit http://www.diabetes.org/