Diabetic Foot Care

At Sky Podiatry, our podiatrists have an interest in diabetic foot care. Diabetes affects the entire body – and can have severe consequences for the feet. Prevention is the best way to take care of your feet if you have diabetes, meaning regular visits to your podiatrist are essential. Our friendly and experienced podiatrists are here to help you get the finest foot care to help prevent diabetic complications.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition where the body does not produce, or produces insufficient quantities of insulin, resulting in increased sugar (glucose) levels in the blood stream. This can have a number of adverse effects on the feet, thus preventative foot care is vital for all patients you are living with diabetes. There are two types of diabetes:

1. Type 1 Diabetes, which occurs where the pancreas fails to produce any insulin

2. Type 2 Diabetes, which is the most common form, and occurs when the pancreas still produces insulin, however it is not enough, or it is ineffective.

Regardless of if you are living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, it is still extremely important to consult with your podiatrist, as your feet may be at risk.

Why Is It Important to See a Podiatrist as a Diabetic?

If you have recently been diagnosed with diabetes, it is important to visit a podiatrist because you are more are risk of experiencing foot problems due to the following complications with diabetes:

Neuropathy – (Damage to the nerves in the feet)

Neuropathy may result from poor blood glucose control and damage to the nerves in the feet. This causes a loss of protective sensation, meaning, your feet may be unable to detect injury. For example, you may be unaware of an ulcer on the bottom of your foot as you won’t feel any pain. This can lead to more serious complications, such as infection, or even amputation if left untreated. Symptoms of neuropathy can include numbness, pins and needles, tingling or burning sensations in the feet.

Damage to blood vessels that supply the lower limb
Poor blood glucose control can cause a reduction in the blood supply to the feet. Poor circulation delays healing and mays people living with diabetes more prone to infection following a cut or wound to the foot. Symptoms may include cold feet, pain, and cramps.

How often should you see a podiatrist as a diabetic?

Those who are living with diabetes should see a podiatrist once they are diagnosed. An initial consultation with a podiatrist will help determine how often you should visit a podiatrist for foot care and prevention of any foot issues.

Keep in mind that your feet are more at risk if you have diabetes, and that prevention is the finest cure.

Diabetic Foot Health Assessment

When visiting Sky Podiatry, we will undergo a diabetic foot health assessment, which involved obtaining a thorough medical history and foot assessment. Your podiatrist who has an interest in diabetic foot care will assess the circulation, sensations and the way you apply pressure to your feet through a neurovascular and biomechanical assessment using state-of-the-art pressure plate technology.

Prevention of Diabetic Foot Problems

Prevention is crucial to help prevent more serious foot complications such as ulceration, infection, and amputation. If you suffer from diabetes, then you should look after your feet by:

Inspecting your feet daily for any visual signs of problems.
Protect your feet from injury (ensure you are wearing well-fitted footwear)
Visit your podiatrist for an annual check up
Thoroughly dry between your toes post showering.
Apply emollient daily to improve skin hydration and integrity.
Make an appointment with an experience podiatrist if something looks or feels unusual.

Orthotics

Orthotics support foot function and help redistribute pressure across the whole foot. A major issue with diabetic feet can be foot ulcers, caused by excess pressure on a bony area of the foot, and diabetics with reduced sensation and circulation will be more at risk. Left untreated, ulcers can progress into much more serious problems.

At Sky Podiatry, we have vast knowledge in orthotics and diabetic feet. We can help identify any pressure areas on your feet that may be at risk. Prescription of well-designed custom orthotics with specific padding can be used to support the prevention of ulceration and other diabetic complications.

Book an Appointment Today.

Sky Podiatry

Shop 3/220-224 Westbury Rd, Prospect, TAS 7250

(03) 6732 7838

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Sky Podiatry

Target Complex, Shop 5/21 Vermont Rd, Mowbray, TAS 7248

(03) 6724 3171

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