Diabetic Foot Care
Why is this important?
Diabetes can have a serious impact upon an individual’s feet and if not appropriately managed can result in leg, foot or toe amputations. Sores or infections that are not treated early can lead to gangrene. The NHS reports in 2022, that around 175 amputations resulting from diabetes are carried out every week in England. Quality of life is greatly impacted in these individuals.
What should I do if I am diabetic?
You should check your feet every day. Diabetes can reduce the blood supply to your feet and cause a loss of feeling. This means foot injuries do not heal well and you may not notice if your foot is sore or injured. These problems can lead to ulcers and infections.
Simple things are important, like:
- Keeping feet clean and dry to avoid infection.
- Trying not to go barefoot outside to avoid nicks and cuts.
- Wearing shoes that fit well.
Speak to your Foot Health Practitioner if you notice any changes in your feet, including:
- Cuts, cracks or blisters.
- Pain or tingling.
- Numb toes and feet.
Diabetes UK are constantly campaigning to raise further awareness of the impact that having Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can have on foot health. ‘Putting Feet First’ (Diabetes UK) aims to increase public awareness and education with an aim to facilitate annual foot health checks. Diabetes UK also has advice on how to check your feet.
Your feet should also be checked every year by your GP, diabetes nurse or Foot Health Practitioner. A diabetic foot check is included during a Foot Health Treatment at Sheridan Foot Health.
Assessment and treatment
The main role of the Foot Health Practitioner is to provide education and advice towards maintaining a healthy foot. Regular foot health appointments allow complications to be identified at an early stage. Sheridan Foot Health will undertake vascular and neurological checks.
If your vision is impaired, you have difficulty reaching your feet, have hard to manage problems or would just like some additional care and assistant we recommend this service to routinely examine your feet and cut your nails.
Contact the team on 02392 388149 or 07795 522700 for a consultation and treatment.
Contact the team on 02392 388149 or 07795 522700 for a consultation and treatment.