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DIABETES WEEK 12-18th of July 2020

DIABETES

Why are the feet affected?

  • Due to the small size of the blood vessels and distance away from the heart, the feet are most commonly among the 1st to be affected.

Main complications are:

  • Neuropathy (decreased sensation in the feet and symptoms such as burning or tingling)
  • Vascular disease (diabetes affects the bodys ability to maintain healthy blood vessel walls)
  • Infection (the body has a decreased ability to fight bacteria and disease)

Other complications:

  • Changes to foot structure creating areas of high load
  • Changes to the skin and sweating regulation
  • Decreased sensation and reduced balance

Where podiatry fits in:

  • We conduct an annual assessment (or more regular if required) which investigates and monitors changes in
    • Blood flow
    • Nerve sensitivity
    • Foot structure
    • Areas of high load
  • We can provide tailored treatment which may include
    • Nail care
    • Callus reduction
    • Orthotics
    • Footwear recommendations
    • Review of activities
    • Referrals to include a multi-disciplinary and whole body approach to care

 

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.