HOW WE CAN HELP…

Diabetes can lead to a reduction in blood supply to the feet, which may result in varying pathologies in the legs and feet. The reduced blood supply can delay healing and can make people with diabetes more prone to infection following cuts to the skin.

THE EFFECT OF DIABETES ON THE FEET

Diabetes can cause a number of complications in the feet, including:

• Nerve damage or peripheral neuropathy – numbness, burning sensation, pins and needles, tingling, pain, coldness

• Blocked blood vessels or decreased blood flow – may lead to poor healing ‘

• Weakened bones and collapsed joints, especially in the arch

• Blisters and Calluses

• Ulcers or wounds – the layers of skin can breakdown more easily

• Infections, gangrene and amputation in the most severe case
  

What will the diabetic foot assessment involve?

Podiatrists play a very important role in the assessment, management and treatment of Diabetes. It is essential to have regular check ups. During your check-up, we might conduct some of the follwing:

• Conduct a neurovascular assessment – this will look for signs of decreased circulation or decreased nerve sensation

• Assess your risk factors and provide education on how to care for your feet

• Trimming nails to prevent complications like ingrowing nails

• Removing calluses and corns to prevent infection

• Assessing pressure areas and foot biomechanics to help reduce the chance of ulceration

• Check the feet for lacerations, wounds or infections and make sure they are promptly treated

• Provide advice on the purchase of suitable shoes
  

keep on top of your foot health

A diabetic needs to check or have someone else check their feet daily. Seek advice if you have diabetes and you notice any of the following:

• Abnormal tenderness or swelling

• Changed colour in your feet:

  • Paleness or bluish colour of the toes may indicate decreased circulation

  • Black skin can be a sign of dead tissue

  • Redness could be a sign of infection

• Temperature

  • Extra warm areas may indicate infection

  • Coolness may mean decreased blood flow

• Pins and needles, tingling, numbness or burning – may be the result of nerve damage in the foot

• Blisters, corns or calluses or any pressure areas

• Cracks, wounds or ulcers – get immediate attention

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For further information visit Diabetes Australia website.

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