Diabetes Foot Care
Diabetes mellitus is a disorder which results in increased blood sugar levels, either due to a failure of insulin production (Type 1) or because the body becomes resistant to insulin (Type 2). The final type is gestational diabetes and can occur in pregnancy and can lead to type 2 diabetes.
"An estimated 3.2 MILLION AUSTRALIAN’s have diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Only 1.1 MILLION have been diagnosed."
How can diabetes affect your feet?
- LOSS OF FEELING- Also known as “Peripheral neuropathy”. This occurs when diabetes has caused damage to your nerves. This means you may not be able to feel an injury when it occurs.
- DECREASED BLOOD FLOW- Also known as “Peripheral Vascular Disease”.Decreased circulation means healing rates for wounds, cuts and abrasions are longer and therefore increase the risk of infections. You are also at an increased risk of arterial blockages than a non-diabetic.
How to prevent foot problems?
- Regular foot care- Regular foot care by a podiatrist significantly reduces the risk of diabetes related complications.
- Annual foot check up’s- Regular check up’s (or more if needed) are recommended by Diabetes Australia. At Min-Toe Podiatry a full diabetes assessment is conducted.
This includes:
- A Doppler ultrasound- which allows us to evaluate blood flow and detect any blockage, allowing for an early diagnosis of an blood flow problems.
- Monofilament and tuning fork testings which are non-evasive and painless exams that determine if any nerve damage has occurred.
- It is important to check your feet regularly for any redness, cuts, swelling or blisters.
- Moisturise- Diabetes has been shown to cause dry skin. By using cream such as sorbolene on your feet and legs decreases the risk of this happening.
- Footwear- Footwear should always been worn, even inside the house. We can help in finding appropriate footwear that suits your needs.
- Cover wounds- Any wounds, regardless of how minor should always be cleaned and dressed immediately. If there are any concerns, see a podiatrist, G.P or hospital immediately.
"Up to 85% of diabetic foot complications are preventable with education and increased awareness of diabetic foot care."