According to the Amputee Coalition of America (ACA), one out of every 10 healthcare dollars is spent on diabetes in the United States. Diabetes is a disease in which high levels of blood sugar affect small blood vessels in the body. These effected blood vessels can lead to serious complications, including heart disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, eye damage, skin and mouth conditions, bone and joint problems and stomach problems, according to the Mayo Clinic. Because of the effects of diabetes on nerves, bones and joints, a leg or foot amputation may be necessary. You should be aware the complications of this procedure if an amputation is part of your doctor's treatment plan.
Phantom Limb
A phantom limb is a possible complication that can occur after a diabetic leg or foot amputation, according to Medline Plus. Phantom limb is the sensation that the leg or foot is still there after amputation. You may feel cold, warmth, itchy sensation or pain. This occurs because the nerves that send signals from the leg may send inappropriate signals to the brain. In addition, phantom pain is the sensation of pain from the leg or foot that is no longer there. However, this does not include pain from the stump. Alert your doctor if you are experiencing this complication. There are medications, noninvasive treatments and surgical treatments that may provide relief, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Joint Contracture
Joint contracture is a possible complication of amputation from diabetes complication, according to the Mayo Clinic. A joint contracture causes your joint to become stiff and can significantly reduce your range of motion. This complication can make it quite difficult to adjust to your new prosthetic. Be sure to follow your doctor's post-operative instructions to prevent contracture of your joint.
Wound Complications
A wound that does not properly heal is a complication of a diabetic leg or foot amputation, according to Medline Plus. There may be difficulty with wound healing because of its proximity to major bones and the size of the incision. Also be aware of signs of infection. These signs include redness, warmth, swelling, excessive pain and drainage from the incision site. Alert your doctor if you are having difficulty with wound care.
