Today, 11 million Canadians are living with diabetes. While those not close to the disease may associate the management of diabetes with things like monitoring blood sugar and measuring insulin levels, the medical complications can be much more complex. High blood sugar caused by diabetes can damage organs, blood vessels and nerves. Complications from this damage can lead to issues with blood circulation and the transmission of important nerve signals. The compound effect of these issues can result in hard-to-heal ulcers and wounds. By engaging PBO Group’s care team early on in your diabetes journey, they can monitor your body closely to help prevent ulcers and wounds and ensure that any issues are addressed quickly and effectively.
Devices to Consider in Your Diabetes Care Plan
Custom Foot Orthotics
Foot orthotics can both prevent and treat wounds on the feet. At PBO Group, we craft custom foot orthotics from diabetic-friendly materials and design them in a way that offloads pressure hotspots to prevent circulation complications.
Diabetic-Friendly Shoes
Shoe choice is incredibly important for diabetics. Orthopaedic shoes made without interior seams prevent rubbing and irritation that can lead to chafing and blistering. At PBO Group, we can make modifications to customize clients’ shoes for their foot’s unique needs. We can also offer advice on special offloading shoes to help address potential circulation concerns.
CROW Boot
When wounds or ulcers are more severe in nature, a Charcot Restraint Orthotic Walker may be required to foster faster healing and increase client comfort. These devices are eligible for Ontario’s Assistive Device Program funding and PBO Group staff can assist clients with the application process.
Prosthetic Limbs
Those living with diabetes are at increased risk of lower limb amputation and wounds or ulcers are the most common cause. Should amputation be required, the PBO Group’s Certified Prosthetists serve as active members of the client’s Amputee Care Team, working closely with the surgeon and other healthcare experts to support the client through every step of the process. Prosthetics are eligible for Ontario’s Assistive Device Program funding and PBO Group staff can assist clients with the application process.
If you or someone you care about is living with Diabetes, book an appointment with your PBO Group care team to discuss how we can support you in the management of the condition.
