Prevention of amputation in Veterans everywhere
PAVE expands the care and treatment of Veterans at risk for amputation or who have a prior amputation.
The goal of PAVE is to help prevent or delay limb loss.
Your case may be managed by a rehabilitation physician, vascular and orthopedic surgeons, nurse podiatrist, therapist and prosthetic/orthotic staff. PAVE will follow you from entry into the VA health-care system, through all levels of care, and back into the community.
The PAVE Clinic is an outpatient podiatry specialty clinic. PAVE is specialty services working as a team with a goal of prevention of foot sores or amputation.
Amputation care and rehabilitation is provided for a Veteran who has had an amputation.
Care and treatment of foot blisters, open sores, and associated medical problems, are provided to the Veteran, as needed.
Objectives of PAVE
- To provide treatment by a team of specialists.
- To prevent amputation through early detection and treatment of the patient.
- Education about proper foot care.
Services offered
- Prosthetic & podiatry referrals
- Patient education
- Follow-up evaluations
Referral criteria
In order to be seen in the PAVE clinic, a Veteran must be referred by their primary care physician. If the Veteran has a history of diabetes or any other condition which might cause permanent or decreased loss of feeling or blood flow in their feet or lower legs, they are encouraged to ask for a referral to the PAVE clinic.
Who is at risk of limb loss?
Veterans with the following health problems or risk factors:
- Diabetes
- Poor circulation
- Decreased use of lower legs
- Non-healing sores of the lower legs
- Amputee
- Foot deformities
- Smoking
Improve your chances
- Stop Smoking
- Control blood sugar and blood pressure
- Exercise regularly as ordered by your physician
- Try to keep normal body weight
- Eat a well balanced diet
- Wear supportive, comfortable shoes
- Sit with legs uncrossed
- Avoid sandals or shoes with sling-back heels or open toe
Foot problems can become a major concern for Veterans with diabetes. Early treatment can reduce the risk of serious infection or amputation.
Talk to your doctor
We encourage our Veterans to talk with their doctor if they notice any of the following:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bruises
- Corns
- Calluses
- Blisters
- Burns
- Punctures
- Cuts
- Fungus infections
- Ingrown toenails
- Numbness or tingling of your feet
- Other foot problems