What is Diabetes ?
Diabetes is a condition in which the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood is too high because the body is unable to use it properly.
Type 1
Usually affects children and young adults. It occurs when there is a reduced, or absence, of insulin production by the pancreas. This type is also known as insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). Treatment for IDDM is usually in the form of daily Insulin injections.
Type 2
Usually affects people over the age of 40, overweight, those with a family history of diabetes, or poor lifestyle, including diet and exercise. It occurs when an insulin resistance develops and therefore, the body has an inability to deal with glucose and fat.
This type is known as non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Treatment is normally based around lifestyle changes, including weight loss, diet and exercise. Daily medication may be required if lifestyle changes do not control blood sugar levels.
How does Diabetes affect the feet?
If Diabetes is poorly controlled for a long period of time it may lead to nerve damage, (peripheral neuropathy) which impairs sensation to the feet, and / or reduced blood supply to the feet (poor circulation). Peripheral neuropathy results in reduced pain and pressure sensation which means that if you cut your foot, develop a blister or step on something sharp, you may not feel it, and serious infection may develop. If poor circulation is also a factor, the infection may not heal and an ulceration may develop. In serious cases if the ulceration does not heal, the only option may be to remove body tissue (amputate) from the infected area.
How can Podiatrists help with Diabetes ?
Podiatrists manage diabetes by conducting regular, specialized foot health assessments to detect neuropathy (nerve damage) and peripheral vascular disease (poor circulation) early, preventing serious complications like infections and ulcers. We provide preventative care, including proper toenail cutting, callus management, and vascular/neurological assessments, typically recommended at least annually for diabetics.
Key Aspects of Podiatric Diabetes Care:
- Comprehensive Foot Assessment: Checking for loss of feeling using a monofilament test, testing reflexes, and assessing blood supply (checking ankle pulses) to detect nerve damage and circulation issues.
- Preventative Treatment: Treating corns, calluses, and ingrown nails to prevent skin breaks that can become infected.
- Ulcer Prevention and Management: Identifying high-pressure areas and providing customized orthotics or appropriate footwear to prevent diabetic foot ulcers.
- Education: Advising patients on daily foot care, such as washing, drying between toes, checking for injuries, and monitoring for temperature or color changes (e.g., redness, swelling).
- Infection Management: Providing swift treatment for blisters, sores, or cracks that do not heal within a week.
When to See a Podiatrist Immediately:
Diabetics should seek prompt care for any signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, swelling, or persistent pain in the feet.
