Diligent foot care is required for diabetic patients in order to prevent serious complications. The feet of diabetic patients are at particular risk for problems as this condition can cause damage to the nerves and blood supply. This is especially likely if a person:
- Has had diabetes for a long time
- Has had high levels of blood glucose for a long time
- Smokes
- Is inactive
Did you know that there are two types of risk to feet when it comes to diabetic foot care?- low risk and high risk. Understanding the risk and taking proper care is crucial to preventing serious problems, which could even include amputation.
Low risk feet have normal sensation and good blow flow. However, without regular checks with a Podiatrist there is an increased risk of developing complications and becoming high risk.
People who have had foot ulcers or amputation are considered to have high risk feet. If poor feeling and/or decreased blood flow are present, those with calluses and/or irregularities such as claw toes are also at an increased risk.
People with low risk feet are encouraged to get their feet checked every year, whilst it is encouraged to have high risk feet checked every 3-6 months.
Check-ups at our clinic will include examinations to analyse:
- Blood circulation to the feet
- Sensation and reflexes (nerves)
- Unusual foot shapes
- Toenails
- Dryness, calluses, corns, cracks or infections
Our Podiatrists can carry out an easy and painless check on your feet to determine whether you have a low or high risk of developing more serious issues. Call our office to schedule your assessment.
Please note that if any injury/changes to your feet do not improve within 24 hours, make an urgent appointment to see a Podiatrist. Seek urgent medical advice for even the mildest foot infection, including any sore, open wound or crack which is oozing, contains pus or any type of discharge.