by
Karen Giardina
This article discusses the struggle a 71 year old diabetic man faces with an infected blister on his toe. Due to his diabetic condition, circulation to his feet slowed and caused nerve damage, allowing a blister to become infected and later amputated. Now doctors are trying to save his foot since the amputation did not heal correctly. In order to do this, the use of maggots has been suggested. Maggot therapy helps remove dead skin, allowing live skin to heal, and it has been found to be more effective than surgical removal. Since the patient, Begay’s, surgery, the condition of his foot has improved and he has been released from the hospital.
Healing processes that include the use of maggots and leaches have been a medical therapy that has been around for decades and is proven to still be effective. The use of maggots to remove dead skin and heal an infection is a fascinating concept. A situation like Begay’s is a good example for others to pay attention to small problems before they become out of control. Begay closed the article informing others to stay on top of their conditions. “Look at your feet every day, and if you can’t look at your foot, get your family to do it,” he said. “Everyone with diabetes should be seen annually by a foot specialist.”
