Jamaica Hospital Medical Center -- Department of Public Affairs -- 8900 Van Wyck Expressway Jamaica, New York 11418
For Immediate Release
Name: Michael Hinck
Telephone: 718-206-8973
Email: mhinck@jhmc.org
Diabetic Foot Care
Oct 27,2009
Contact Information:
<br>Natifia Gaines
<br>(718) 206-6020
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<br>October 27, 2009 (Jamaica, NY)--It’s National Diabetes Awareness Month and if you are one of the estimated 24 million Americans living with diabetes, you may want to start paying more attention to your feet.
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<br>According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes often have nerve damage, and as a result develop foot problems. This condition, called peripheral neuropathy, reduces a person’s ability to feel pain, heat, or cold—making it easier for cuts, blisters, and sores to go unnoticed until the skin breaks down and becomes infected.
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<br>In addition, diabetes is known to cause circulatory problems. Diabetics tend to have poor blood flow to their legs, feet, and toes and will often experience foot swelling, numbness, tingling, and pain.
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<br>“People in general don’t pay attention to their feet,” said Dr. Andrew Rubin, Podiatrist at Jamaica Hospital. “This is detrimental if you’re diabetic. You may have a wound that you are unaware of, and if left untreated can lead to greater complications.”
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<br>Both, poor circulation and nerve damage can lead to ulcers and infection, which may ultimately lead to amputation. People with diabetes have a high incidence of leg or foot amputation. However, amputations can be prevented with the proper foot care.
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<br>If you have diabetes, Dr. Rubin recommends that you: <ul>
<br><li>Wash your feet daily</li>
<br><li>Dry your feet well, especially between the toes</li>
<br><li>Moisture your skin with unscented lotion; not applying between the toes</li>
<br><li>Check your feet for blisters, cuts, or sores</li>
<br><li>Change daily into clean and cotton socks or stockings</li>
<br><li>Keep your feet warm and dry</li>
<br><li>Never walk barefoot</li>
<br><li>Examine your shoes every day for cracks, pebbles, nails, or anything that could hurt the feet</li>
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<br>“Foot care is an integral part of the overall health of individuals living with diabetes,” explained Dr. Rubin. “In addition to managing the disease, which can prevent foot complications, regular visits to the podiatrist and daily foot inspections are encouraged."
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<br>If you have diabetes and would like to schedule an appointment for specialized diabetic foot care at Jamaica Hospital’s Division of Podiatry, please call 718-206-6712.
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<br><b>Jamaica Hospital Medical Center</b> serves a population greater than 1.2 million in Queens and eastern Brooklyn. This 387-bed medical center is an accredited community teaching hospital with a large network of community-based ambulatory care centers. JHMC offers an array of acute inpatient, rehabilitation and mental health services, and is one of the busiest Level 1 trauma centers in New York City. The hospital provides general medical, pediatric, and dental services, in addition to home health services. Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s mission is to serve patients and the community in a way that is second to none. For additional information, please contact Public Affairs at 718-206-6020.
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