How can diabetes affect your foot health? And more importantly, how do you prevent problems developing?
“Worldwide, a person loses a limb due to diabetes-related complications every 30 seconds.”
Diabetes UK is a national charity who research all things-Diabetes. Their website has useful information on looking after your feet with diabetes.
Having diabetes means you’re at much greater risk of developing foot problems.
This is because raised blood glucose, also known as blood sugar, can damage the sensation in your feet.
It can also affect your circulation, which can mean blood can't flow around your body properly, especially to your feet. Without a good blood supply, you may have problems with cuts and sores healing. You may also get cramps and pain in your legs or feet. These are just some of the signs of a serious foot problem.
Diabetes UK recommends 10 simple steps to prevent foot problems:
If you don’t get these problems treated, they could lead to foot ulcers, infections and, at worst, amputations. Most foot problems can be prevented with good, regular foot care. So you need to know how to look after your feet at home. And make sure you get a quality foot check from a healthcare professional (Podiatrist) at least once a year.
At Godalming Podiatry Clinic we offer a “Diabetes Foot Assessment” appointment encompasses all treatment elements from our premium gold package as well as a full neuro-vascular, dermatological and musculoskeletal assessment of your feet and ankles. Your bespoke diabetes foot health report will be offered to you and your GP to help maintain the best possible health in your feet. Check out our treatment page for more information or book online here.
Monofilament test used to assess peripheral sensation in the feet - part of the Diabetic Foot Assessment appointment at Godalming Podiatry Clinic
