Also, many people with diabetes have nerve disease, which reduces sensation. Together, these problems make it easy to get ulcers and infections that may lead to amputation. For these reasons, you should take good care of your feet and see your health care provider right away about foot problems. Always follow your health care provider s advice exactly when caring for ulcers or other foot problems. One of the biggest threats to your feet is smoking.
Smoking affects small blood vessels.
It can cause decreased blood flow to the feet and make wounds heal slowly. A lot of people with diabetes who need amputations are smokers. Often, your health care provider can prevent loss of a limb with an operation that improves blood flow in your feet. Your Health Care Provider s Role B ecause people with diabetes are more prone to foot problems, a podiatrist may be on your health care team. Your health care provider should perform a complete foot exam at least annually more often if you have foot problems.