Diabetes Assessment and Foot Care

Managing Diabetes with Expert Foot Care

Diabetes can significantly affect your feet if not properly managed. High blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage, reduced circulation, and other complications that make foot care a priority. At Leading Health Podiatry, we offer comprehensive diabetes foot assessments to help detect issues early and prevent complications such as diabetic foot ulcers, infections, and even amputations. Our team of qualified podiatrists is here to help you manage your foot health, ensuring your feet remain as healthy as possible for years to come.

What Are the Risks of Diabetes on Your Feet?

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing foot problems due to the following reasons:

Neuropathy: High blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage, leading to a loss of sensation in the feet. This means cuts, blisters, or other injuries may go unnoticed, increasing the risk of infection.
Poor Circulation: Diabetes can affect blood flow, leading to poor circulation in the feet. This can slow the healing of wounds and make infections harder to fight off.
Increased Risk of Infections: Diabetes weakens the immune system, making it easier for infections to develop. If left untreated, minor foot problems can escalate quickly.
Foot Deformities: Nerve damage may also lead to deformities, such as Charcot foot, which can cause instability and increase the risk of injury.

Signs You Should See a Podiatrist for Diabetes Foot Care

It’s important to regularly monitor your feet and consult a podiatrist if you notice any of the following symptoms:

Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in your feet
Redness, swelling, or warmth in the feet or toes
Open sores or wounds that don’t heal
Blisters, calluses, or corns that may lead to complications
Foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, or Charcot foot

Early intervention is key to managing foot complications related to diabetes.

What’s Involved in a Diabetes Foot Assessment?

A comprehensive diabetes foot assessment involves several steps to ensure a thorough evaluation of your foot health. Our podiatrists will check for:

Neurological Assessment: We assess the sensory nerves in your feet using various methods, such as a monofilament test and tuning fork, to identify any signs of nerve damage.
Vascular Assessment: We examine the blood flow in your feet, checking for poor circulation and any signs of arterial disease that could impact healing.
Foot Structure Evaluation: Our team looks for deformities, calluses, and any signs of joint abnormalities that may cause discomfort or increase the risk of injuries.
Wound Care: If any wounds or ulcers are detected, we provide immediate treatment and a tailored care plan to support healing and prevent infection.
Footwear Advice: We provide recommendations on appropriate footwear to prevent foot injuries, reduce pressure points, and improve comfort.

Foot Care for People with Diabetes

Managing foot health when you have diabetes requires daily care and regular check-ups. Our podiatry team provides the following recommendations to help you maintain optimal foot health:

Daily Foot Inspections: Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or any other unusual changes. Use a mirror if you can’t see the bottom of your feet.
Proper Foot Hygiene: Wash your feet daily with mild soap and lukewarm water. Dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections.
Moisturizing: Keep your feet moisturized to prevent dry skin and cracking, but avoid applying lotion between the toes, as it can promote fungal growth.
Choose the Right Footwear: Wear shoes that fit well and offer cushioning and support. Avoid tight or ill-fitting shoes that could lead to blisters, calluses, or pressure sores.
Nail Care: Trim your nails carefully, straight across, to avoid ingrown toenails. Don’t cut too close to the skin to prevent injury.
Regular Foot Checks with a Podiatrist: Regular check-ups with a podiatrist ensure that potential issues are detected early, and appropriate treatment is provided to prevent complications.

How Leading Health Podiatry Can Help You

At Leading Health Podiatry, we take a holistic approach to diabetes foot care. Our podiatrists provide tailored treatment plans that include regular assessments, ongoing monitoring, and guidance on proper foot care. We offer:

Diabetic foot assessments to identify potential risks early
Custom orthotics and footwear advice to reduce pressure and promote comfort
Wound care and ulcer management to support healing and reduce infection risk
Education on managing diabetes-related foot issues at home

By taking proactive steps with regular foot care and assessments, you can significantly reduce the risks of complications associated with diabetes.

Contact Leading Health Podiatry Today

If you’re living with diabetes and want to ensure your feet remain healthy, schedule an appointment with one of our expert podiatrists. Our comprehensive foot care services are designed to keep you active, comfortable, and pain-free.