Foot Amputation Cases Continue to Increase in Canada

(Newswire.net — February 3, 2017) Wilmington, DE — In Ontario Canada, about 1,700 individuals suffering from diabetes end up having their feet amputated every year. According to two health groups, this is due to the lack of regular foot assessments as well as a $100 medical device.

The Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO) and the Canadian Association of Wound Care (CAWC) reveals that 85 percent of the 2,000 foot amputation cases every year would not be necessary if preventive care is practiced.

Foot amputations do not just cause terrible suffering but also cost $70,000-per-amputation bill to the health-care system.

There were other health professionals who joined both groups to urge the Ontario government in funding universal preventative foot care as well as “off-loading” devices for all diabetics.

According to RNAO Doris Grinspun, there was a promise by premiers three years ago that best practices for diabetic foot care would be funded. However, it seems that little to nothing has been truly done.

Mariam Botros, chiropodist and CAWC’s executive director, reveals that diabetic neuropathy makes it challenging for individuals with diabetes to feel bruises and cuts to their feet.

It is important to remember that a simple bump can actually turn into a dangerous ulcer. There are special devices like custom braces that help keep the pressure off the foot. However, they are not covered by OHIP.

Botros added that there are actually many individuals who simply cannot afford it. The government hasn’t been able to fund the device that will eliminate the pressure to promote fast healing.

Compared to other industrialized nations, Canada actually has relatively high rates of amputation.

Most amputations could actually be prevented through modern advances in medicine. Amputation cases could also be reduced through co-ordinated approach in healthcare funding, which includes early screening and diagnosis for individuals with diabetes.

Individuals who suffer from diabetes are typically advised to resort to routines and measures that could help them keep their feet healthy. Calluses are one of the foot problems they should avoid or treat immediately.

There are many ways to keep the feet healthy and callus-free. Experts advise that people should avoid using metal blades to reduce or eliminate the risk of cuts and wounds.

There are products such as the electric callus remover from Naressa, which is available at amazon.com. This product has been widely used in safely buffing foot calluses.

According to customers, the electric callus remover from Naressa has helped them buff their calluses without any trouble at all.

(amazon.com/Electric-Callus-Remover-Naressa-Electronic/dp/B015GJDW18)