Hello All - I am a UC MOd with Diabetes - Need a Question here!

Hello All,

I have not posted here before, but my name is bob and I have been over in UC for several years.  I have also had diabetes for about 10 years.  I am 48 and live in DC.  I had an accident on New Years Day which turned into somewhat of a disaster - after "spraining" both ankles on the ice, it turns out that I had fractures in both feet but couldn't feel it with my neuropathy.  It has in turned into severe Charcot (sharko) foot syndrome with all the associated pain and disfigurement.  I am bening fitted for leg braces (think polio) to support them from disintegrating further.  Obviously my life has turned way upsside down due to this and am in near constant pain - and a real inability to walk or stand for a period of time.

Does anyone else have this and how are you coping?  Any similiar experiences would be appreciated.

Love to all here

bob 

Bob,
I have a collapsed arch on one side and a bum knee on the other. I have braces for both. You and I should teach dancing lessons! Doc told me that diabetes causes decreased circulation to capillaries that supply the bones, ligaments and tendons leading to a tendency for injury. This also slows healing. Large sugar molecules gum up the small capillaries so maintaining low sugars is absolutely necessary. Talk to your doc about the options for neuropathy meds that won't mess with your UC

I have stopped my neuropathy in it's tracks with a no grain/no tuber food plan. I don't know if you can do this with your UC but if you have insurance an appointment with a registered dietitian would help you find your path thru this to prevent further neuropathy, amputation and blindness. You also may need an appointment with an endocrinologist to get your sugars in line and put you on the best meds for your diabetes and your tummy. I'm on a long acting insulin (Lantus) as well as Metformin. Wake up to 90-104 most mornings. If you're not on Lantus yet this might be the best thing for you because it keeps sugars in line, is easy on your liver and won't give you the diarrhea that the Metformin brings on with some peeps.

I'm going on vacation till Sept. 5th but I'll try to touch base with you when I return and see if I can find some options that will help you.

Dear Bob,

My name is Julie and i too have Neuropathy that has turned into Charcot's foot. Which I totally understand the pain and swelling. I now have just found out I have degenerative arthritis in that foot. It is deformed and very difficult to walk or to find shoes that will fit both feet. I had to have special shoes made which are very expensive, if you have Medicare they will cover most of the cost. But you still my have to pay about $225 out of pocket. Just something you can look into. My podiatrist put me in touch with this shoe company who will make molds of your feet and then send them out to be especially made for you. This will stop any further deformation and damage to your foot. Good luck and hope everything works out well for you.