How Important Is Your Feet If You Have Diabetes?
Southwest Foot & Ankle Centre provide diabetic foot management services in our Bunbury and Australind clinics.
Did you know that there are more than 4,400 amputations every year in Australia as a result of diabetes? Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing chronic conditions in Australia. Studies have shown that 8% of diabetes-related deaths are directly attributed to foot ulcers – the presence of a diabetic foot ulcer increases the risk of lower extremity amputations by five-fold.
For more information on diabetic foot management, contact Southwest Foot and Ankle Centre today on (08) 9791 1319 or book an appointment online!
How Can Diabetes Affect Your Feet?
Having uncontrolled blood sugar levels with diabetes can affect your feet in three main different ways:
Impaired circulation (Peripheral arterial disease)
Diabetes can cause your blood vessels to narrow and stiffen, resulting in reduced blood flow down into your feet and toes. Impaired blood flow can result in delayed healing and higher risk of infection.
Damaged nerves (Peripheral neuropathy)
Excessive blood sugars can cause damage to the nerves in your foot and ankle. This can result in a condition called peripheral neuropathy. Patients with peripheral neuropathy often report symptoms of numbness, burning, tingling and “loss of feeling” in their feet. Unfortunately, with reduced sensation in your feet, it is possible to step on something sharp, hot or harmful, developing wounds or ulcers without you even noticing!
Foot shape changes (Foot deformity)
With advanced diabetes, it is possible for your muscles to wear away and tendons to become stiff and tight. This may result in foot shape deformity changes, prominent bones or hammertoes, which increases your risk of developing pressure sores or ulcers.
Why Should I Consult My Podiatrist Or Podiatric Surgeon?
Podiatrists play a crucial role in preventing diabetic foot complications, screening patients and providing specialist wound care. Our clinicians will ensure to perform a regular neurovascular assessment and diabetic foot check to monitor, prevent and manage your circulation, nerves and foot shape. This is done as a team approach involving the other relevant health care providers including your GP to ensure the best outcome for your foot health.
Footwear, orthotics, management of skin and nail conditions and preventative education may play a role in your treatment plan. In some cases, surgical intervention by our podiatric surgeon may be required to manage chronic or prevent diabetic foot complications.
Southwest Foot & Ankle Centre is a podiatry clinic based in Bunbury and Australind that services all of the southwest region and WA.
Have a question? Contact Southwest Foot and Ankle Centre today on (08) 9791 1319 or book an appointment online!
