Diabetic Foot Conditions
Understanding Diabetic Foot
Diabetic foot is a complication of diabetes that can lead to severe consequences if not managed properly. High blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor blood circulation, increasing the risk of foot ulcers, infections, and in severe cases, amputation. Understanding the causes and management strategies for diabetic foot is crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing complications.
Common Causes
- Neuropathy: Diabetes can cause nerve damage, leading to loss of sensation in the feet. This makes it difficult to detect injuries, increasing the risk of ulcers and infections.
- Poor Circulation: Diabetes can lead to peripheral artery disease (PAD), reducing blood flow to the feet and impairing the healing of wounds.
- High Blood Sugar: Elevated blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight infections and heal injuries.
- Foot Deformities: Diabetes can cause changes in the shape of the feet, leading to pressure points and increased risk of ulcers.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters and sores, which can quickly become serious for individuals with diabetes.
Prevention and Management Tips
- Regular Foot Inspections: Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or any signs of infection.
- Proper Footwear: Wear well-fitting shoes that provide support and avoid tight or narrow shoes that can cause pressure points.
- Maintain Blood Sugar Levels: Keeping your blood sugar levels within the target range can help prevent complications.
- Good Foot Hygiene: Wash your feet daily with mild soap and warm water, and keep them dry, especially between the toes.
- Moisturise: Apply a moisturising cream to prevent dry skin, but avoid applying it between the toes.
- Avoid Barefoot Walking: Always wear shoes or slippers to protect your feet from injuries.
Advanced Treatment Options For persistent diabetic foot issues, our clinic offers comprehensive assessments using pressure plate analysis. This advanced technology helps identify pressure points and abnormalities in your gait. According to NICE guidelines, assessing foot pressures is crucial in managing and preventing complications in diabetic patients. Based on the results, we can create custom orthotics designed to alleviate pressure and provide support.
Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Appointments If you suffer from diabetic foot complications, our comprehensive appointment is designed for you. Our expert podiatrists will conduct a thorough examination, including gait analysis, pressure plate assessment, and neurovascular assessment (a diabetic foot check to assess nerve function and blood flow). We will then develop a personalised treatment plan, including custom orthotics and foot care recommendations. Let us help you achieve better foot health and prevent serious complications.
Call the biomechanics experts at The Worcester Podiatry Clinic on 01905 428434 in Worcester
