News & Advice

Whether you have had diabetes for many years or have been recently diagnosed with diabetes it’s important to get your feet checked at least annually by a suitably trained person

By visiting a Podiatrist you can prevent foot problems, keep your skin and toenails in great condition and get everyday foot care advice.

Regardless of whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes the effects of diabetes are the same.

How does Diabetes affect feet?

High blood glucose levels can cause damage to the nerves in your legs and feet. This nerve damage is called Neuropathy and can lead to
• Loss of sensation (feeling) in your feet
• Change in the shape to joints and bones in your feet
• Reduction in sweating and dry skin on your feet

High blood glucose levels can also damage your blood vessels (circulation) in your feet which may mean that less blood gets to your skin, muscles and tissues.

Damage to your circulation and/or feeling in your feet can lead to serious problems

KNOW YOUR DIABETIC FOOT ULCER RISK

Podiatrists are trained and skilled in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of foot problems and identifying and informing you of your Diabetic foot ulcer risk.

The assessment involves checking your circulation, this is non-invasive and painless, and the use of a special fibre to check the feeling in your feet.

Other factors such as the presence of corns, callus, your foot shape, footwear are evaluated along with your ability to care for your feet safely.

These factors combined form the basis of a clinical decision on your individual DIABETIC FOOT ULCER Risk and you will receive treatment and advice pertinent to you.

Whether you have symptoms or not it is important to know your risk, and that this can change.

Do you have any of the following?

Signs there may be changes to the nerves in your legs or feet
Tingling or pins and needles in your legs or feet, Numbness, Pain in your legs or feet whether resting or when your active, Dry skin or hard skin, Red, warm or hot feet, Change in shape of your feet, A loss in the sense of the position of your legs and feet

Signs there may be changes to the blood supply in your legs or feet
Cramp in your calves, shiny smooth skin, thick nails, cold, pale feet, wounds or sores, Pain.

A Physiofusion Podiatry appointment usually takes 30 mins and at the end of the appointment you will know your Foot ulcer risk, received treatment and advice on management of your Foot problems and discussed future care and preventative measures.
People with Diabetes can also suffer from a condition called Painful Neuropathy, this can be very painful, keep you awake at night, distressing and impacting on your sleep and everyday life significantly. We may be able to help you with this and would be happy to discuss treatment options with you.

Tina Woodward is a HCPC Reg Podiatrist with 20 years post graduate experience working within the NHS and Private sector.