BCHS podiatrist to discuss care and treatment of foot conditions
Proper foot care is essential because when your feet hurt, every movement is uncomfortable. Even though your feet may be strong they are vulnerable needing good care to work efficiently.
Maintaining proper foot health is especially important to the estimated 60,000 Americans who each year discover they have diabetes, and tens of thousands more who have the disease without knowing it. If left untreated, nearly 15,000 people with diabetes could have to undergo foot, toe, or leg amputations.
On Wednesday, June 18, Dr. Chad Chambers, podiatrist and member of the Battle Creek Health System medical staff will discuss the common causes of foot disorders, ways a person can prevent foot complications, optimal approaches in treatment, and proper foot care tips.
Senior Health Partners, in coordination with Battle Creek Health System, presents the program at the Burnham Brook Center as part of its ongoing 'Aging Well' series, which is free to the public. A light luncheon will be served at 11:30 a.m. followed by Dr. Chambers' presentation at noon. Seating is limited. For reservations call toll free 1-877-GO2-BCHS (877-462-2247).
Why is foot care important? When feet are not cared for properly, they begin to show symptoms of illness. These symptoms may differ from person to person, but as a rule you will experience continuous pain, irritation, and discomfort. Those are warning signs that your feet need special care and professional attention.
"Individuals diagnosed with diabetes or who are known to have vascular disease are especially encouraged to attend this program," says Dr. Chambers. "Vascular disease, which impairs blood circulation to the limbs, is the major complication of diabetes. Because the feet are farthest from the heart and often lack sufficient blood supply to heal wounds and fight infection, the most devastating complications are often discovered there."
What are the symptoms? Cold feet; corns; calluses; and fungus or cellulites, a potentially fatal bacterial infection, may also indicate diabetes. People with diabetes often complain of burning feet or toes, similar to athlete's foot, as well as fatigue or pain in the calf or buttocks after walking a short distance.
Unless their feet hurt, people are inclined to ignore them, figuring that the pain will go away. As a result, our feet are the body's most abused, neglected, and unexamined part. But our feet mirror diseases, especially diabetes, and regular preventive foot care about every two months can detect or prevent serious complications.
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