Diabetes is a complex condition that occurs when the body is either unable to produce insulin, doesn’t produce enough insulin, or doesn’t respond sufficiently to insulin. This leads to an increase in glucose (sugar) levels in the blood.
Individuals with Diabetes are at a higher risk of developing complications with their lower limbs and feet. Foot complications are the number one reason for hospitalisation for someone with Diabetes.
Diabetes can damage the nerves and blood vessels in the feet reducing touch sensitivity, and blood flow. This subsequently increases the likelihood of undetected skin damage and increases the time for skin damage to heal.
The two most common foot complications for patients with Diabetes are:
Peripheral Neuropathy is when the nerves in the lower limbs are damaged which results in a loss of touch sensitivity, along with numbness, tingling or burning sensations. Reduced sensation means that you are less likely to feel when skin damage has occurred. We recommend early detection through annual Neurovascular Assessments as nerve damage is irreversible.
Peripheral Vascular Disease is the reduction in circulation of blood to the foot and leg. Reduced circulation leads to longer healing times and a subsequent increase in infection risk.
Given the complex nature of Diabetes and how quickly changes can occur, regular general treatments with your Podiatrist are key to maintain optimal foot health, allow for preventative measures to be employed and quick identification of changes, so early treatment can be provided.
Your Podiatrist will provide a recommendation for frequency of visits based on your current foot health and foot health goals. We recommend annual Neurovascular Assessment for patients with, or at risk of Diabetes, with increased frequency required for those with more severe disease progression.