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.