Diabetic foot care

What is Diabetes Mellitus?

This is a condition where you have raised blood glucose levels (called hyperglycaemia) due to a metabolic disorder.

There are two main types of diabetes:
TYPE I – (Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus) where patients control their diabetes with insulin
TYPE II – (Non Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus) where patients may control their diabetes through diet, tablets or sometimes insulin.

Both of these type of diabetes can be harmful to feet.

How regularly should I see a Podiatrist?

It is essential that everyone with diabetes of either type visit a Podiatrist regularly for a 6 – 12 monthly check up and whenever they have foot problems. Your podiatrist may recommend a much more frequent visit.

Why should diabetics see a Podiatrist?

Diabetes is directly linked with profound changes to your feet. The circulation to and around your feet can deteriorate meaning you are more susceptible to infection, less likely to heal quickly and your skin quality reduces meaning it is easier to damage. The sense of feeling in your feet can also reduce so that it is possible to damage your feet and not know about it. It is important we monitor your feet regularly so that we can detect these changes early on.

You can see how even a seemingly simple problem like corns, callus or toenail cutting could cause much bigger problems under these circumstances.

Basic Guidelines for Diabetics

Warning Signs

Redness, Swelling, Pus, Discharge, Pain.

Diabetes health care is a key part of a Podiatrist's job role.

It is also important to see your GP or Practice Nurse for regular check-ups. Your optician will also be recommending regular eye checks.