Diabetic Podiatry - Prevent Common Diabetic Complications with Regular Foot Maintenance



Diabetes and Foot Health

Diabetes is a chronic condition which develops from a consistently high blood glucose (sugar) level, this leads to the the reduction of insulin production. Reduced insulin production means that the body is unable to convert glucose (sugar) into energy, leading to a many complications if not properly controlled or treated.

What is Diabetes?

There are two forms of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes – This is due to a complete lack of effective insulin and usually present in children and before the age of 30. It is controlled by the use of insulin injections as well as diet and exercise.
Type 2 Diabetes – This is the most common type and is due to a relative lack of insulin production or the tissues in the body develop a resistance to insulin. It commonly affects those over 40 years old, however can be younger due to lifestyle choices. Type 2 diabetes is treated with diet control, exercise and commonly medication is required.

So how does this condition affect your feet?

If your diabetes is uncontrolled or untreated for an extended amount of time, the feet are unable to receive the nutrient rich blood required to supply the nerves and blood vessels. When your blood vessels are unable to to receive adequate blood supply, peripheral vascular disease is likely to develop which will leave the feet feeling cold. While this reduced blood flow to your nerves can lead to the development of peripheral neuropathy which is the diminished sensation within the feet, generalised pins and needles or a numb foot. These symptoms are important to manage the progression of which is why a Podiatrist is important. A perfect example is when a diabetic with reduced foot sensation steps on a piece of glass, they are unable to feel the glass and continue to walk around. This can lead to a wound being created and possible infection. If this occurs, than the patient would likely have to present to hospital and have a reduced quality of life while the wound healed.
Video courtesy of DiabeTV retrieved from YouTube

​How a Concord Podiatrist can help

As there is a large amount of complications related to diabetes, it is recommended that a annual check is performed. Concord Podiatrists can undertake this assessment to help detect any changes & provide maintenance early.
Within this assessment our Podiatrist will look at:
  • The circulation to the foot
  • The colour, hair growth, temperature of the foot
  • Any skin conditions or changes
  • Sensation detection within the foot using fine pressure and vibration
  • Foot/Knee reflexes.

​Handy hints to maintain Diabetic foot health

  • Maintain your recommended blood sugar levels
  • Following dietary changes
  • Participating in regular exercise
  • Reduce or quit smoking
  • Do not walk around barefooted
  • Check your feet daily for any changes or foreign material
  • Choose footwear that it suited to your foot and activity level​
  • Check your shoes for any sharp edges or foreign material
  • Check the wear patterns of your shoes and replace if excessively worn outside the heel
  • All blisters, cuts and scratches should washed with saline or antiseptic, dressings should be applied and seek advice from one of our Podiatrist or your GP
  • Do not pick hardened skin, corns or cuts as this can lead to infection, see one of our Podiatrists for treatment or advice
  • Avoid self prescribing over the counter products, as some corn pads can cause more damage