Why Foot Care Matters When You Have Diabetes

If you have diabetes, you probably already know it affects your blood sugar. But did you know it can also affect your feet?

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Over time, diabetes can make it harder to feel small changes in your feet, like a sore spot or a bit of rubbing from a shoe. It can also slow down how quickly your body heals. That means small things like dry skin, a blister, or a cut might take longer to get better.

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Some people are more likely to have foot problems than others. This is sometimes called having a "high-risk foot". It simply means that your feet need a bit of extra care. This might be the case if:

• You have changes in feeling or sensation

• Your circulation is a bit slower

• You've had a sore or foot problem in the past

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The good new? With a little bit of regular care and some help from professionals, you can keep your feet health and stay active and comfortable.

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How a Podiatrist Helps with Diabetes Management

Podiatrists have special expertise in foot and lower limb care, trained to assess and manage complications that often arise in people with diabetes. Our role is both preventative and responsive.

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Easy Tips to Look After Your Feet - Reduce the risk of further complications

• Check your feet daily - Even small cuts matter

• Wash and moisturise carefully - but never between the toes

• Wear soft, well-fitted shoes and clean socks - Avoid barefoot walking

• Trim nails straight across - or let a podiatrist help

• Schedule regular foot checks - prevention is always better than a cure

• Speak up early - if something feels wrong, don't wait

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Diabetes Management 

At Saltfleet Clinic our podiatry team has expertise and experience in the prevention of diabetes related complications such as peripheral arterial disease (PAD), peripheral neuropathy and diabetic foot ulcers. These complications are preventable with optimal glycaemic control and regular assessments.

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We can provide diabetic patients with an annual peripheral vascular assessment depending on risk level and clinical indicators. We also provide ongoing education on optimal glycaemic control which is important in preventing diabetes related complication and we review patient’s diabetes self management to reduce their risks of developing diabetes-related complications.

 

Peripheral Vascular Assessment and Report of Findings to GP

Our podiatrists utilise our Doppler Ultrasound Machine to provide a comprehensive peripheral vascular assessment by using Pedal Doppler Arterial waveforms, Ankle Branchial Index and Toe Branchial Index, and Toe Pressure. These assessment modalities are used to reliably screen for the presence of Peripheral Arterial Disease, monitor the progress or the development of the disease and present a report of findings to your GP.

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