The True Cost of Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Beyond Amputation
Diabetic foot ulcers cost more than just limbs—they affect your entire life. The financial burden averages $50,000-$100,000 per ulcer including treatment, lost work, and care needs. Physical costs include reduced mobility, chronic pain, and loss of independence. Emotional costs involve depression, anxiety, and fear of future complications. Social costs mean isolation as mobility decreases and self-consciousness about wounds increases. Quality of life plummets with activity restrictions. Even after healing, recurrence rates reach 40% within one year and 65% within five years. Prevention through daily foot care costs almost nothing compared to these devastating consequences