The Footpoint Podiatry team are experts in helping you understand what Diabetes means for your foot health and what you can do to minimise these potential complications.
Did you now Type 2 Diabetes is the fastest growing chronic condition in Australia?
It is estimated that 6% of people over 65 years of age are diabetic.
Diabetes Queensland believes this number could be even higher when including those who are undiagnosed or pre-diabetic.
Australia also has one the highest rates of Type 1 diabetes in the world. Diabetes affects the whole body in a number of ways, particularly in the lower limb region.
50% of lower limb amputations are performed due to diabetic complications.
15% of the diabetic population has a foot ulcer and 84% of leg amputations are preceded by an ulcer.
Complications associated with diabetes
– Vascular and circulation changes
– Altered components of blood
– Neurological and sensation changes
– Increased risk of infection
– Delayed healing
– Small muscle atrophy
– Impaired vision
– Renal Disease
What can you do to prevent these complications from occurring?
The risk of these complications has been shown to be greatly reduced by controlling blood sugar levels and following the recommendations provided by their medical team. This may include your GP, Endocrinologist, Diabetes Educator, Dietician, exercise physiologist and of course a Podiatrist.
The podiatrist is part of this multidisciplinary team that will care for a diabetic patient to limit the impact these complications can have. You should regularly visit your Podiatrist for a diabetic and neurovascular assessment. This may vary depending on your needs and health status, but all patients with diabetes should be assessed at least every 12 months.
Conduct daily visual foot checks and report any changes, wounds or bruises to your Podiatrist.
Avoid tight fitting and inappropriate footwear.
Clean, dry and moisturise feet daily.
Ensure your nails are kept neatly trimmed and hard skin reduced appropriately, this may need to be done by your Podiatrist, especially if you are considered At Risk.
Need more information? Call and see one of The Footpoint Podiatry Team today!
Ph: 3256 0455
