By Laudia Sawer
Tema, Dec. 13, GNA – Madam Amanda Mawudoku, a podiatrist (foot and ankle doctor), says podiatry plays a significant role in limb preservation and prevention of amputations in diabetics.
Madam Mawudoku noted that “most amputations are preventable by checking your feet daily, visiting with your podiatrist, and wearing proper footwear.”
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview, she said amputating the lower limbs of diabetics had ceased in the United Kingdom, where she practiced, due to the work of podiatrists.
Explaining how podiatry could help prevent amputation of the legs of diabetics, she said the connection between diabetes and the feet was important because diabetes could cause nerve damage and reduced circulation, leading to limb loss and other complications.
She noted that podiatrists could spot potential problems before they become serious and could offer treatments to prevent complications.
“Our routine foot inspections and examinations detect issues like ulcers, corns, calluses, and other warning signs to prevent amputation.”
Madam Mawudoku further said podiatrists look for things like neuropathy (nerve damage), arthropathy (joint damage), and vasculopathy (blood vessel damage).
She added that neuropathy could be a potentially serious condition, especially if it was left undiagnosed, giving the assurance that podiatry could help manage diabetic neuropathy by monitoring the health of diabetics feet, prescribing orthotics (devices
inserted in shoes to treat foot and ankle conditions), taking care of any injuries or foot wounds, and much more.
“Complications can be avoided or delayed with regular and comprehensive foot exams and treatment,” she said, adding that prevention of amputation could help improve the quality of life of diabetics.
She encouraged the public to take care of their feet, stating that by preventing and treating foot problems, podiatrists help people to maintain mobility, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life.
“Lifelong foot health is achievable with the help of regular podiatric care. With the right foot care, you can keep your feet healthy and continue to be active for years to come.”
Madam Mawudoku further said foot problems could have a domino effect, leading to knee, hip, and lower back issues, stressing that “This is why it’s important to take your foot health seriously and practice preventive measures.”
GNA