4
HealtHbeat
the daily disPatCh
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Planting your feet firmly into the treatment of diabetes Few things are more important in diabetes than taking care of the feet. The feet are a source of complications and infections, sometimes life-threatening ones. Diabetes causes problems for the feet in two ways. First of all, the circulation is impaired and the sensation to the feet can be decreased or lost. An ulcer, blister, or burn can occur without causing pain, and by the time the infection is discovered, it can be very serious. To prevent problems, a person should wash his or her feet daily and inspect
them for blisters, sores, or other problems. The skin should be dried carefully and the toenails cut straight across. If corns or calluses need to be trimmed, it is best to have it done by a doctor, podiatrist, or nurse. One should wear comfortable stockings and properly fitting shoes. Each day, check the shoes for any pebbles, protruding nails, or other intrusions which may cause pressure on the foot. Secondly, if the feet feel cold, it is best to wear more stockings and clothes rather than try to warm them by a heater or in hot
water. Burns can occur without causing pain and will take weeks to heal. A person must avoid harmful practices, such as smoking, which will further damage the circulation and delay healing. Do not wear constricting or seamed stockings, or footwear which may cause excessive rubbing or pressure, such as sandals or high-heeled shoes. Walking barefoot may be even worse. Stepping on slivers or other sharp objects is sure to cause an infection. Do not even walk barefoot inside the house — carpets hide many hazards.
Vision Behavioral Health Services, LLC. 102 West Nash Street, Suite A Louisburg, NC 27549 Phone: 919.496.7781 Fax: 919.496.1477 Website: www.visionbhs.org
We offer the following services: • Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Therapy (8 and above) • Individual Outpatient Therapy for MH/SA Clients • Group, Family and Couple Therapy • Medication Management • DWI Assessments and Treatment • Assertive Engagement Licensed Clinicians, Therapists, & Qualified Professionals are on-site to assist you with the appropriate level of care. Our agency accepts Medicaid and many other types of Insurances, as well as State Funding (IPRS) for Uninsured Individuals For More Information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at our Louisburg Office: 919.496.7781 or Visit or new website @ www.visionbhs.org **Vision Behavioral Health Services is proud to be a CABHA Certified and CQL Accredited Agency.**
The Best is yet to come....
Serving Franklin, Warren, Vance, and Granville Counties.
It is very important for those with diabetes to care for their feet. Even small injuries to a diabetic’s foot can lead to major complications if not treated immediately.
Family-Like Atmosphere Best thing to Family and Home
Green-Bullock Assisted Living Center as originally set forth by our founders...Dr. James P. Green, Mr. & Mrs. Frank D. and India P. Bullock, it is our continued endeavor... to assist and serve our residents with the highest level of professional care and services. It is our committed responsibility to ensure we meet or exceed the standards set forth by the state of North Carolina as we strive to be a valued asset of the community as well as to our residents, their families and friends.
Life enriching activities & friends await you!
Green-Bullock Assisted Living Center 1000 Health Center Road, Henderson (Off of County Home Road)
(252) 492-0001 • info@greenbullock.com • www.greenbullock.com