Diabetic Foot Care: Prevention is the Best Medicine
For individuals living with diabetes, regular foot care isn't just about comfort—it's a critical component of preventing serious health complications, including ulcers and amputations. Our specialist podiatry service is designed to be your partner in proactive, preventative care.
The 'Perfect Storm': Why Diabetes Puts Feet at Risk
Diabetes can create a dangerous combination of problems in the feet:
- Diabetic Neuropathy (Nerve Damage): High blood sugar can damage the peripheral nerves, leading to a loss of sensation in the feet. You might not feel a small cut, blister, or pressure from a stone in your shoe.
- Peripheral Artery Disease (Poor Circulation): Diabetes also damages blood vessels, narrowing the arteries and reducing blood flow to the lower legs and feet. Good blood flow is essential for healing.
When you can't feel an injury and your body can't heal it properly, a minor issue can quickly escalate into a major, non-healing wound (ulcer), which can become infected and lead to amputation.
Our Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Assessment
A regular visit with our podiatry specialist is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your feet. A typical assessment includes:
- Neuropathy Screening: We use a monofilament to test for loss of protective sensation, identifying your level of risk.
- Vascular Assessment: We check the pulses in your feet to assess the quality of blood flow.
- Skin and Nail Inspection: We conduct a thorough inspection of the skin and nails, looking for any potential problem areas like pressure spots, calluses, or early signs of infection.
- Safe Nail and Callus Care: Our specialist uses sterile, medical-grade instruments to safely trim nails and reduce any calluses or corns, which can be high-pressure areas where ulcers form.
- Footwear Education: We provide expert advice on choosing appropriate, diabetic-friendly footwear to reduce pressure and friction.
Red Flag Symptoms for Diabetics
If you have diabetes and notice any of the following, seek medical attention immediately: a new cut or blister, swelling, redness, warmth, or any break in the skin that is not healing.
Protect Your Mobility for Life
Studies show that regular care from a podiatrist can reduce the risk of amputation in people with diabetes by over 80%. Don't wait for a problem to arise.
Book Your Diabetic Foot Screening