A groundbreaking microwave therapy has helped a diabetic patient avoid a double leg amputation, offering hope for others with similar conditions.
How it works
Barry Mayled, a 73-year-old architect and garden designer from Wales, was facing the loss of both legs below the knee due to severe foot ulcers. These ulcers, which started as a simple verruca (foot wart), had resisted various treatments for four years.
Just as doctors were considering amputation, Mayled's podiatrist suggested trying an innovative microwave treatment. This therapy uses low-energy microwaves to stimulate the immune system and promote healing.
Life-changing results
After a year of monthly treatments, Mayled's feet healed completely. He can now walk normally and continue his career, which would have been impossible if the amputations had been necessary.
"It saved my life," Mayled said of the device. "I'm still working and I'm on building sites and everything, and without my legs, that would have been the end of it."
Potential for wider impact
This case highlights the potential of microwave therapy in treating stubborn foot ulcers, particularly in diabetic patients. Foot ulcers and amputations are serious complications of diabetes, often resulting from reduced blood flow and nerve damage in the lower limbs.
Tracy Davies, the podiatrist who treated Mayled, believes this technology could have far-reaching implications for treating non-healing foot ulcerations and preventing unnecessary amputations.
The device, developed by Scottish health tech company Emblation, has already been used in over 350,000 treatments worldwide for verrucae and plantar warts. Researchers are now exploring its potential for treating other conditions, including certain types of skin cancer.
Preventing diabetes complications
While this new treatment offers hope for those with severe diabetic foot ulcers, prevention remains crucial. Testing your diet to help prevent type 2 diabetes can be an important step in managing your health. Additionally, research has shown that mindfulness can lower the risk of diabetes and its complications.
If you're dealing with persistent foot ulcers or other foot-related complications, especially if you have diabetes, consider discussing this treatment option with your healthcare provider.
Remember: Early intervention and proper foot care are crucial for preventing serious complications in diabetes. Regular check-ups with your doctor or podiatrist are essential for maintaining foot health.
