August 11, 2009

Annual Diabetes Foot Screening Slated for September 9
Event is free for those with diabetes; foot screenings help prevent painful ulcers and even limb loss

GRAYLING, Mich. - For people suffering from diabetes, one of the most painful, but preventable, complications are foot ulcers.

On September 9, Mercy Hospital Grayling is sponsoring free foot screenings for those with diabetes from 8:00 am-4:00 pm. Along with the foot exams, participants can learn more about proper foot care, footwear, and limb loss prevention, said Rhonda Haske, BSN and Program Coordinator for Mercy. This is an annual event done in partnership with the American Diabetes Association's National Foot Screening Day.

"The main concern is that people with diabetes are far more likely to have a foot or leg amputated than other people, because the accompanying artery disease reduces blood flow to the feet," she said. "The resulting ulcers and infections can lead to limb loss, but with proper footwear and regular foot screenings, amputations can be prevented."

Podiatrists Brian Brausa, DPM and Tracy Bacik, DPM will be performing the foot exams, which are painless and test for decreased nerve sensation on the bottom of each foot.

"Every person who has diabetes can and should have a foot screen," Haske said. "Many people with diabetes are unaware of the detrimental effects diabetes can, and eventually will, have on their feet if not treated."

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 989-348-0455.

Contact:  Carrie Gray
Director of Marketing and Communications
(989) 348-0594
www.mercygrayling.com