AMPUTATION

   This is a surgical removal of a portion or all of a limb. The word amputation may also be used to describe the removal of fingers and toes. II Is estimated that 70% of all of the non-traumatic amputations are performed annually on diabetics. Diabetes inhibits the free flow of blood to areas farthest from the heart. This means that fingers and particularly toes are susceptible to the development of gangrene.



    *Once an extremity has reached the point of gangrene, it must be taken care of by your health care provider. In order to prevent that condition, diabetics in particular need to be very aware of circulation in their extremities. Several things might be tried. Soak the feet or hands In a mixture of Sol-U-Mel, mixed with Epsom salts and hot water for up to a half hour at a time. After drying the area, apply either T36-C5 or T40-C3. Pain-A-Trate is also good for stimulating the flow of blood and enhancing circulation. See also Diabetic Gangrene.