DIABETIC FEET

It is extremely important for diabetics to have their feet regularly checked by a podiatrist. There are many things that can occur to a diabetic’s leg and feet due to uncontrolled blood glucose levels. During Their Lifetime, 15 Percent Of People With Diabetes Will Experience A Foot Ulcer And Between 14 And 24 Percent Of Those With A Foot Ulcer Will Require Amputation

• Neuropathy/Retinopathy – Damage to nerve fibers particularly feet, and eyes

• Vascular disease – Disease of the small blood vessels

• Heart disease – Damage to the larger blood vessels, including those of the heart

• Ulceration – Reduced circulation to the lower limbs, leading to amputation

The exact cause likely differs for each type of neuropathy. Researchers think that over time, uncontrolled high blood sugar damages nerves and interferes with their ability to send signals, leading to diabetic neuropathy. High blood sugar also weakens the walls of the small blood vessels (capillaries) that supply the nerves with oxygen and nutrients.

However, a combination of factors may lead to nerve damage, including:

• Inflammation in the nerves caused by an autoimmune response. The immune system mistakes nerves as foreign and attacks them.
• Genetic factors unrelated to diabetes may make some people more likely to develop nerve damage.
• Smoking and alcohol abuse damage both nerves and blood vessels and significantly increase the risk of infection.

Call your podiatrist for an appointment if you have diabetes. Early diagnosis and treatment of any health condition gives you the best chance for controlling your diabetes and preventing future problems.

Be really careful if:

• A cut or sore on your foot that is infected or won’t heal
• Burning, tingling, weakness or pain in your hands or feet that interferes with daily activities or sleep
• Changes in digestion, urination or sexual function
• Dizziness

Our Podiatrist will help you with:

• Footwear and orthotics – to accommodate pressure by conforming to the shape of the foot
• Neuropathy – Monitoring the loss of feeling in their feet, and changes in the shape of their feet.
• Vascularity –They can then help reduce the risks of ulceration, reduced circulation, and treatment of ulcers.
• Education – Education into the disease and how to take best care of yourself.

Call us to find out whether your diabetic foot treatment is covered by your private health care provider. There are a few things to consider with your private health fund such as your level of cover, your policy waiting periods, annual limits and fund rules. It is important to know what you are up for prior to your visits to avoid unwanted, expensive surprises.