Diabetic Foot Assessments

Diabetes is a serious condition that affects up to 1.2 million Australians.

What many people don't know is the impact that diabetes has on the feet! 

Undiagnosed or poorly managed diabetes can cause a range of problems to the feet which can impair mobility, cause pain, and lead to the development of wounds that can end in amputations. 

The good news is that with regular assessment and consistent foot care this can be avoided. 

How does Diabetes affect the feet? 

Diabetes affects the feet in 2 ways. 

1. Damage to the nerves of the feet (Peripheral Neuropathy). 

The nerves are responsible for feeling the ground, controlling the muscles and maintaining balance/co-ordination. Diabetes can cause numbness, burning, tingling and pain. It can damage the nerves and lead to a loss of protective sensation (LOPS). 

Loss of protective sensation means that you may be unaware if you step on a piece of glass, walk on burning hot concrete or develop an ingrown toe nail. This can then lead to infection and ulceration without even knowing. 

2. Damage to the blood flow. 

The feet are the furthest body part away from the heart, this means blood flow to the feet is already difficult. Diabetes can cause damage that makes this worse and this can mean wounds, ulcers, blisters, cracked heals, corns and ingrown toe nails don't heal which can lead to chronic wounds and in some cases, amputation. 

What do we do? 

We are experts at identifying the early signs of these problems and can make changes to ensure they don't develop. Jordan has lectured about Diabetes and the feet to students at Central Queensland University since 2018 and is expertly trained at detecting any issues that may be the result of diabetes. 

What is involved? 

A diabetes assessment should be performed at minimum every 12 months. In this, we look at your blood circulation, your nerve function, your skin condition, your bone and joint function, the pressure analysis of your feet and your footwear. We assess and treat any skin conditions that may be putting you at risk. This includes cutting any long/sharp/thick toenails, removing calluses and corns, treating any cracked heels, bunion or ingrown toe nails. We will then write a letter to your GP (with your permission) to outline the findings of our assessment and create a treatment plan tailored to you to address anything that is required. 

If you are interested in a diabetes assessment or have further questions please call us or book an appointment online.