Do you have diabetes? Diabetes can affect many parts of the body, and if you have diabetes, there are important precautions that you should take in order to look after your feet. Below we offer some advice from the team at Entire Podiatry to help prevent some of the foot complications associated with diabetes…
How does diabetes affect the feet?
Diabetes can cause damage to nerves and blood supply. For your feet, this means that diabetes can cause two main problems: loss of sensation in the feet, and restricted blood flow to the legs and feet. A loss of sensation means that you might not feel signs of injury in your feet, and restricted blood flow can affect your body’s ability to heal any injuries or wounds that do occur.
This can lead to serious complications and in some cases, even amputation.
How can I look after my feet?
If you have diabetes, you should be guided by your podiatrist to ensure the best treatment for your individual needs, but the following points offer some general advice for preventing foot problems associated with diabetes:
Inspect your feet every day
Look at and feel each foot for signs of injury including bruises, blisters, broken or cracked skin, hot or cold areas, corns and calluses, and discolouration. If your eyesight is poor, ask someone else to check your feet for you or use a mirror to inspect the soles of your feet.
Keep your skin clean
If you find a cut or break in the skin, wash the area with warm salty water, apply an antiseptic and cover with a clean dressing.
Seek professional advice
Never try to treat corns and calluses yourself – always seek professional advice from a podiatrist to reduce the risk of complications and further skin breakdown. It is recommended that you never scrape or cut a corn or callus yourself, or use any over-the-counter corn and callus preparation.
Avoid going barefoot
If you have diabetes, always wear proper, well-fitted socks and shoes in order to prevent injury and protect your feet.
Have regular check-ups
It is recommended that people with diabetes should see a podiatrist at least every 6 to 12 months, in order to inspect the feet and prevent diabetic foot complications. In addition to regular check-ups, if you notice any of the following signs, an appointment with a podiatrist is recommended:
- Painful corns, calluses or warts
- Any area of redness, swelling, bleeding or blisters
Book Your Annual Diabetic Foot Assessment
The Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) recommend that all diabetic patients have their feet assessed by a qualified podiatrist at least every 12 months.
As part of your diabetes risk assessment, your podiatrist will usually begin by asking a few questions about the management of your diabetes and feet. Your podiatrist will then look at each of the following systems to gain an overall understanding of your foot health and your risk of diabetic foot complications such as ulcerations and amputations.
- Vascular Assessment
- Neurological Assessment
- Dermatological Assessment
- Musculoskeletal & Gait Assessment
- Footwear Assessment
Read more about what is included in a diabetic foot assessment. For more information or to book an assessment, Freecall 1800-4-ENTIRE (that’s 1800-4-368473),
Or simply book an appointment online at any one of our 9 clinics conveniently located across Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Logan and on the Gold Coast.
