Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes is a long-term condition that affects the body’s ability to process glucose. It can have serious health implications if not managed carefully by a healthcare professional. Elevated glucose levels can cause damage to blood vessels, nerves, eyes, kidneys, and feet. However, if managed carefully, people can continue to lead full, healthy, and active lives.

In the UK, there are 3.9 million people with diabetes, accounting for 1 in every 16 people. It is estimated that around 700 people are diagnosed with diabetes daily. Due to the effects of diabetes on the body, it is important that those with diabetes get their feet checked by a healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist, or have annual screenings with their diabetes specialist practice nurse at a minimum.

A visual check for breakage, damage, or increased pressure points will be performed to prevent any risk of ulceration.

Foot circulation will be checked by palpating the two foot pulses (dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial artery) and further examined with an ultrasound Doppler to check the rhythm of the pulses for adequate blood flow and potential risks.

Testing of nerves to the feet for pain, light touch, and vibration will be conducted to determine if there is a loss of nerve innervation to the feet.

Finally, your podiatrist will provide advice to maintain healthy feet, such as recommending the best footwear for your foot type, appropriate creams to use, and how often you should come for treatment and assessment.

• Diabetic ulceration
• Nerve sensation loss
• Peripheral vascular disease (damage to blood vessels)
• Athlete’s foot and fungal nail infections