This month is Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month. During this time, we hope we can support loved ones with limb losses and differences and increase advocacy. As podiatrists, we know the dangers of complications and how they can lead to the loss of a toe, a foot, or even the lower part of the leg. It is a scenario that we work diligently to prevent.

The doctors at the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group are committed to making it easier to visit a podiatrist when you need them the most. We also want to empower our patients to recognize concerning signs and symptoms during their daily foot inspection. According to a statistic, 85% of lower-limb amputations were preceded by a foot ulcer. This means that we have some work to do.

Here are three ways to prevent limb loss:

Know your risk

Do you have diabetes? If you’re nodding your head to this question, we encourage you to recognize your risk and add a podiatrist to your care team. Patients with diabetes commonly deal with circulation issues, which hinder the body’s ability to heal. This is how we get non-healing wounds that can become infected. Diabetes also brings along neuropathy or nerve damage. The damage takes away a patient’s ability to detect pain, such as a scrape or large cut.

Know the signs

Signs of infections are one of our biggest concerns as podiatrists. If the infection spreads, there is an increased risk of amputation. We want to know about these symptoms as soon as possible. Signs of infection include pain, swelling, redness, and discharge. Please don’t think an infection will go away on its own. Seek medication and immediate medical attention. Don’t hesitate to contact us.

Know your podiatrist

We’re here for you, so contact us with any concerns. Knowing your podiatrist, especially if you have diabetes, is one of the best ways to manage your condition as a team. We can help you detect problem areas earlier. We can also provide orthotics to help reduce the pressure on your wounds. Finding a podiatrist in your neighborhood should be as easy as 1,2,3. We’re here to help.

At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we specialize in treating the following conditions: ankle and sports injuries, heel pain and plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care complications, children’s foot problems, skin conditions of the feet, and fungal nails. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in

the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.