Serious Diabetes Complication (NAPSA)}—Whetheryou havedia- betes, or know someone whodoes, you're mostlikely familiar with the importance of controlling the disease through diet and exercise, an insulin regimen or both. However, even for those who strive to effectively managetheir condition, serious anddebilitating complications such as diabetic foot ulcers can occur. Fortunately, an innovative treatmentoption is available in a wound care center near you. “Diabetic foot ulcers are common, often painless, complications that are caused by nerve damage and/or poor circulation. Because patients may not experience pain or discomfort with the ulcers, the wounds can go untreated for long periods of time, which can lead to severe consequences,” said Dr. Desmond Bell, Board Certified Wound Specialist and founder of the Save A Leg, Save A Life Foundation. “The key to preventing additional complications with ongoing diabetic foot ulcers is to seek treatment at a wound care center where professionals can appropriately address the medical needsof the situation.” Wound care centers provide advanced wound healing techniques and state-of-the-art wound assessment, testing and treat- ment for people suffering from acute and chronic (hard to heal) wounds. Although wound healing can take time, if you have a foot woundthat has not healed in four weeks with conventional therapies, consult with a doctor at a local wound care center abouttrying Apligraf”. Apligraf is a unique living cell-based treatment that plays a more active role in wound healing by delivering living cells, proteins produced by the cells, and collagen, which each play an importantrole in healing. Apligraf is the only product with FDA approval for healing both venous leg ulcers and diabetic foot ulcers. To find a wound care center near you, visit www.apligraf.com. In addition to medical treatment, Dr. Bell recommends that people with diabetes take preventative action and checkfor signs of diabetic foot ulcers by following these tips to stay foot healthy: *Reduce yourrisk factors— Work with your endocrinologist to control blood glucose and high cholesterol, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. eAppropriately protect your feet—Visit with your podiatrist to discuss appropriate pre- vention techniques, such as recommended footwear and toenail maintenance. Look at your feet daily— Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, red spots, or swelling. Inform your doctor immediately if you see any changes or injuries.
