Why are diabetics at a greater risk for limb loss?
Diabetes affects the circulatory system and the lower extremity is the first place this condition is seen. This is due to the fact that whether one has diabetes or not, the feet have the poorest circulation due to the feet being the furthest structures from the heart and also because the blood in the feet has to work against gravity to get back to the heart. As circulation is often compromised in diabetes, the feet and lower extremity are at an even greater risk for infections. An infection as minor as a small cut may take much longer to heal up in a person with diabetes. This is due to not only the compromise in circulation that is often noted in diabetes, but also to the effect diabetes has on the immune system. Diabetes can alter the immune system to the point to where the body cannot properly fight off an infection. Without proper medical attention, a very minor problem can often turn into a major concern and condition. Diabetes has often been called the “Great Masquerader” because
