DIABETES + FEET
Essential Foot Care for Diabetes
Diabetes–related foot complications can have a significant impact on both physical health and overall well-being.
Nerve damage (neuropathy) can cause numbness, reducing the ability to feel pain or temperature changes, which increases the risk of unnoticed injuries.
Poor circulation further slows healing, making even minor cuts or blisters prone to infection, potentially leading to ulcers and, in severe cases, amputation.
Beyond the physical effects, these complications can take an emotional and psychological toll. Chronic foot pain, limited mobility, and the fear of serious infections can lead to anxiety, depression, and reduced independence.
Everyday activities such as walking, exercising, or even wearing shoes comfortably may become challenging, affecting overall quality of life.
Early detection and proper foot care play a crucial role in preventing these complications.
Regular check-ups with a podiatrist, maintaining good blood sugar control, and practicing daily foot hygiene can help protect both physical health and personal well-being, allowing individuals to stay active and maintain their independence.
Our experienced podiatrists specialise in diabetic foot assessments, wound care, and prevention strategies.
We provide expert advice on proper footwear, nail care, and daily foot checks to help you stay active and pain-free.
If you have diabetes, regular foot check-ups are crucial.
Book an appointment today to safeguard your foot health.
Essential Foot Care for Diabetes
Diabetes-related foot complications can have a serious impact on both physical health and overall quality of life.
Nerve damage (neuropathy) can cause numbness, making it difficult to feel injuries or temperature changes, while poor circulation slows healing – turning minor cuts or blisters into infections, ulcers, or, in severe cases, leading to amputation.
These physical challenges can also affect emotional wellbeing, with chronic foot pain, reduced mobility, and the fear of serious infections often leading to anxiety, depression, and a loss of independence.
Everyday activities like walking, exercising, or wearing shoes comfortably can become difficult.
Early detection and proper care are key. Regular podiatry check-ups, good blood sugar control, and daily foot hygiene can help prevent complications and keep you active.
Our experienced podiatrists specialise in diabetic foot assessments, wound care, and prevention.
We also offer advice on appropriate footwear, nail care, and daily foot checks to support your health and lifestyle.
If you have diabetes, don’t wait – book a foot health check today.
Diabetes Foot Assessments include
Testing blood flow
(circulation)
Testing
nerve sensation
Identifying skin or nail problems
Diabetes & Foot Health FAQs
Why is foot care and foot assessments important for people with diabetes?
Diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and reduced circulation, making it harder to feel injuries and slowing down the healing process. Without proper care, even small cuts or blisters can develop into serious infections.
How does diabetes affect the nerves in my feet?
High blood sugar levels over time can damage the nerves in your feet, leading to numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or loss of feeling. This condition, known as diabetic neuropathy, increases the risk of unnoticed injuries.
What are the signs of poor circulation in my feet?
Symptoms of reduced blood flow include cold feet, slow-healing wounds, dry skin, cramping, and changes in skin color. Poor circulation can make it harder for injuries to heal and increases the risk of ulcers and infections.
How often should I check my feet?
It’s important to check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or sores. If you notice any wounds that aren’t healing or signs of infection, seek medical attention immediately.
What type of footwear should I wear?
Diabetic-friendly shoes should be well-fitted, supportive, have a wide toe box and minimal seams to prevent pressure points and friction. Avoid tight, narrow shoes and always wear socks to protect your feet.
Can I cut my own toenails if I have diabetes?
Yes, but it’s best to follow the contour of your toes and avoid cutting too short to prevent ingrown toenails. If you have trouble trimming your nails or have thickened nails, a podiatrist can help.
How often should I see a podiatrist?
Regular podiatry check-ups (at least once a year) are recommended for people with diabetes. If you have neuropathy, circulation issues, or a history of foot ulcers, more frequent visits are necessary.
Can diabetes lead to serious foot problems?
Yes. If left untreated, diabetic foot complications can lead to infections, ulcers, and in severe cases, amputation. Early detection and proper care can prevent these serious outcomes.
What are the Australian diabetes-related foot disease guidelines?
Recent evidence based Australian Guidelines have a strong recommendation for regular podiatry assessment for people with diabetes.
More information can be found here