Diabetic Foot Care

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Overview

 

Diabetes is a prevalent condition, affecting more than 1.3 million Australians, with many either living with it or knowing someone who does. As such, diabetic foot care is of paramount importance for managing the various complications that can arise.

Diabetic feet can present a range of health concerns, including diabetic foot ulcers, peripheral neuropathy, and peripheral arterial disease. Podiatry for diabetes involves regular screenings to assess the health of the nerves, arteries, and skin of the feet, ensuring early detection and prevention of potential issues.

Podiatrists are key in managing and preventing diabetic foot complications. Through regular care and timely intervention, podiatrists can significantly improve health outcomes for individuals living with diabetes. Incorporating diabetic foot care into routine healthcare is essential for maintaining foot health and preventing long-term complications.

Two Major Ways Diabetes Impacts Foot Health

Nerve Function

Nerves play a vital role in maintaining muscle tone, balance, and sensing pain, temperature, and touch. In diabetes, nerve damage can progress to the point of permanent loss of sensation in the feet, a condition known as peripheral neuropathy. This disruption impairs the body’s ability to detect issues, increasing the risk of unnoticed injuries, deformities, and complications that can escalate without prompt intervention.

Blood Supply

Elevated blood glucose levels can damage the smaller blood vessels in peripheral areas such as the feet, hands, and eyes. Over time, this damage reduces the ability of these vessels to deliver sufficient oxygenated blood, resulting in poor wound healing, increased risk of persistent infections, and tissue death. Impaired blood flow, also known as peripheral arterial disease, is a significant factor contributing to diabetic foot ulcers and, in severe cases, amputation.

Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Care

Neurovascular Screening

During a podiatry visit, a neurovascular screening is conducted to assess blood flow and nerve function in your feet. These simple, painless tests help detect issues early, with results shared with your GP for ongoing management. Based on the findings, your podiatrist will recommend how often screenings should occur, typically at least once a year.

Preventative Measures

In addition to routine foot care, podiatrists help prevent diabetic foot ulcers by offering customised orthotics, footwear guidance, and self-care education. Regular visits provide tailored advice and treatment to ensure optimal foot health and safety.

General Foot Care

Podiatrists offer general foot care for diabetic patients, including nail trimming, callus reduction, and managing corns, warts, and fungal or ingrown nails. Regular care ensures safe monitoring of foot health, even without visible issues, and helps lower the risk of diabetic foot ulcers.

Podiatrist with blue gloves on assessing patients foot for heel pain

Booking An Appointment

 

Do you have a current Medicare referral to see one of our experienced podiatrists? Priority Podiatry Clinic is conveniently located across Southeast Queensland, with 8 locations to serve you. Our clinics are situated in Keperra, Beenleigh, Springwood, Marsden, Toowoomba, Jimboomba, Calamvale, and Coomera.

Please refer to the list of our clinic locations and contact numbers below. Call us today to schedule your appointment. Remember to bring your current referral to your appointment, as well as the shoes you wear most frequently, to ensure a comprehensive assessment.

We look forward to helping you maintain your foot health.

Find A Clinic Near You

Your Initial Appointment

Your podiatrist will start by reviewing your medical history and addressing any concerns you have. Following this, they will conduct a comprehensive foot health assessment, including a neurovascular screening to evaluate the condition of your skin, joints, nerve function, and blood supply. Nail care and callus removal will be provided as needed, and a tailored treatment plan will be discussed to address your current foot health and medical needs.

We understand the impact of diabetic foot issues and are here to help.

Let us help you get back on your feet, come see us and explore how we can support your foot health.

Visit Us Today

Our Clinics Across Southeast Queensland

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