Voice of the Diabetic

Voice of the Diabetic

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NEW TECHNIQUE TO TREAT FOOT ULCERS

Serious, infected foot ulcers are a frequent complication of diabetes, and,

unhealed, can be a major source of amputation. Diabetic neuropathy impairs

nerve sensation, and an individual can be unable to detect minor injury or

infection. Wounds that would otherwise receive prompt attention progress into

ulcers, and, with the impaired circulation that so often accompanies diabetes,

can be desperately slow to heal.

The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons reports that a simple surgical

procedure to lengthen the Achilles tendon, or the calf muscle to which it

is attached, can decrease pressure on the ball of the foot, and provide some

relief to patients with diabetic foot ulcers.

Cherie Johnson, DPM, FACFAS, a Seattle foot surgeon, developed the new technique.

She explained that the increased blood sugar levels brought on by diabetes

affect collagen fibers in the Achilles and cause it to tighten. The Achilles

is attached to the back of the heel, and is pulled by two muscles in the calf

The tighter the Achilles, the harder the pull on the heel bone, and the more

pressure on the bottom of the foot.

The procedure Dr. Johnson developed lengthens the muscle or the Achilles tendon,

slackening and reducing the pressure on the ball of the foot, creating a better

environment for the healing of diabetic foot ulcers. She reported the operation

is proving effective for managing other diabetic foot problems, such as adult-onser

flatfoot, and rocker-bottom Charcot foot.

For more information, contact your podiatrist, or the American College of

Foot and Ankle Surgeons: 515 Busse Highway, Park Ridge, IL 60068; telephone:

(847) 292-2237.

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