Farmers with Diabetes: Risks for Lower Extremity Injury and Disability
Author: Neil, Janice A.
Date Published: 2000
There are over 15 million persons with diabetes mellitus in the United States. Amputation of the feet and legs due to the complications of diabetes is one of the biggest threats to persons with diabetes and can result in permanent disability. Extrinsic factors including improper footwear, mechanical trauma, and thermal injury increase the risk of ulceration in the insensate foot. Farming is well known to be one of the most hazardous occupations. The complex farm environment poses extra threats to those with diabetes. This paper discusses some of these threats and suggestions for prevention of lower extremity ulcers.
Date Published: 2000
There are over 15 million persons with diabetes mellitus in the United States. Amputation of the feet and legs due to the complications of diabetes is one of the biggest threats to persons with diabetes and can result in permanent disability. Extrinsic factors including improper footwear, mechanical trauma, and thermal injury increase the risk of ulceration in the insensate foot. Farming is well known to be one of the most hazardous occupations. The complex farm environment poses extra threats to those with diabetes. This paper discusses some of these threats and suggestions for prevention of lower extremity ulcers.
