Did you know that 280 Australians are diagnosed with diabetes every day? That’s approximately one person every five minutes. There’s a good chance that you, or someone you know, may be living with this condition.
Podiatry is an essential component of diabetes management, as diabetes can have a significant impact on the lower limbs and feet.
How Can Diabetes Affect the Lower Limbs?
When blood sugar levels are not well controlled over an extended period, circulation to the lower extremities can be affected, potentially leading to Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).
Symptoms of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) may include:
- Cramping in the legs during activity or at rest
- Leg and muscle weakness
- Cold feet or lower limbs
- Changes in skin colour
- Cuts, wounds, or abrasions that take longer to heal
When blood sugar levels remain elevated for long periods, diabetes can also damage the nerves in the feet and legs. This is known as Peripheral Neuropathy.
Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy may include:
- Numbness or tingling in the feet
- Burning pain in the feet or legs
- Reduced sensation
- Unnoticed cuts, skin breakdown, swelling, or infection
How Do Podiatrists Assess Diabetic Feet?
Vascular Assessment
We begin with a visual assessment, checking the skin colour, temperature, and overall appearance of your feet and lower limbs. This is followed by a Doppler ultrasound assessment, which helps determine the quality of blood flow to your feet.
Neurological Assessment
We will ask questions about your sensation and any symptoms you may be experiencing. A monofilament test is then performed to determine whether the nerves in your feet are functioning normally.
Dermatological Assessment
This involves a thorough examination of your skin and nails. We assess for calluses, corns, warts, lesions, and any areas of skin breakdown that may require treatment. We also check for fungal nail infections, ingrown toenails, and foot deformities such as bunions or claw toes.
How Can You Reduce Your Risk of Diabetic Foot Complications?
See your podiatrist at least every 12 months for a comprehensive diabetic foot assessment, or more frequently if you require assistance with nail and skin care.
Check your feet thoroughly every day, including the soles of your feet, for cuts, blisters, or abrasions.
Avoid walking barefoot, even around the home.
When washing and drying your feet, pay particular attention to the spaces between your toes to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Apply a moisturising cream to your feet daily, especially if your heels or other areas are prone to dryness and cracking.
Stay active. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise each day to help manage blood glucose levels and support overall circulation.
Diabetes can affect your feet long before you notice any symptoms. Regular podiatry assessments can help identify problems early, reduce the risk of complications, and keep you moving comfortably and confidently. If you have diabetes, don’t wait until an issue develops, make foot health a regular part of your diabetes care plan.
