Diabetes is a word that we hear and see so often. We see it in the news, read it in the paper or hear of close friends or relatives who are diagnosed as having diabetes. According to Diabetes Australia it is estimated that 280 Australians develop diabetes everyday, making it one of the fastest growing chronic diseases in Australia!
In our clinic we often perform Diabetic Foot Checks for newly diagnosed Diabetics. Most don’t realise how important it is to look after their feet once diagnosed.
So what is diabetes in a nutshell? It involves sugar (from food and drinks) and a hormone called insulin. In order to perform any daily activity we need sugar (glucose) to be changed into energy by the hormone insulin. Individuals who have diabetes can either no longer produce insulin at all or the amount of insulin production is reduced. When insulin is not able to convert the sugar into energy, the sugar remains in the blood which can lead to an array of complications in the body.
So why do Podiatrists see individuals with Diabetes? Not only can diabetes affect the heart, eyes and kidneys but it can also affect the feet!
Diabetes can damage the nerves of the feet when sugar levels are high. Signs of changes in the nerves of the feet can present as numbness, tingling or burning sensations.
The presence of diabetes can also cause reduced blood supply to the foot. Signs of reduced blood supply to the foot can present as reduced ability for a cut or wound to heal, leg cramps and a decrease in nail growth.
One of the most significant complications of Diabetes that can be caused by both nerve damage and reduced blood flow results in ulcers (non healing wounds) to become infected and in 1/3 of cases lead to amputation or a toe or a leg.
The bottom line is: If we are unable to feel our feet, we are unable to tend to cuts/scratches/wounds to prevent infection, reduced blood flow allows infection to enter the site and an ulcer quickly develops.
To avoid this terrible complication, and reduce the risk of any complication occurring, it is important to have your feet checked regularly by a Podiatrist. Being proactive about your foot health can reduce the likelihood of a complication, arm you with worthwhile solutions to manage your condition at home and ensure you can live your life to the fullest!
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Podiatrist
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At Medical Pedicure, we’re here to revolutionize foot care and prioritize your safety. Run by Qualified Podiatrists our expert team of podiatrists understands feet inside and out. With their extensive knowledge, you’ll receive the best advice and treatments for all your foot-related concerns.
