Diabetes and your feet
Diabetes is a serious complex condition which can affect the entire body. While there is currently no cure for diabetes, you can live an enjoyable life by learning about the condition and effectively managing it.
Three things you need to know about diabetes:
It is not one condition- there are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes
All types of diabetes are complex and require daily care and management
Diabetes does not discriminate, anyone can develop diabetes
Diabetes is the epidemic of the 21st century and the biggest challenge confronting Australia’s health system. About 1.8 million people in Australia have diabetes.
People who have been diagnosed with diabetes have a higher risk of developing foot injuries and infections. This risk is associated with nerve damage called “peripheral neuropathy” or poor circulation which may lead to peripheral vascular disease.
Neuropathy decreases the protective sensation in the feet which increases the risk of injury especially to the bottom of the foot as you are unable to feel your feet properly and sometimes not at all.
Diabetes can lead to poor circulation in several ways. The most common culprit is high blood glucose levels, which damage the lining of blood vessels and impede blood flow. Diabetes also increases the risk of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), an abnormal narrowing of the arteries mostly in your legs and feet. We require good blood flow to maintain our skin and nails, supply muscles used for movement, fight infection and healing. Therefore, circulation issues can then make it harder to heal wounds if they occur.
It is important to pay attention to any changes in your feet if you have diabetes.
Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
Cold feet and/or colour changes (purple, reddish/blue colour)
Cuts which are slow to heal
A tingling, pins and needles sensation in the feet or numbness
Burning pains in the legs and feet, usually more noticeable in bed at night.
If you have diabetes it is important to see your podiatrist regularly for a Diabetes Foot Health Assessment. The podiatrist will check your circulation, nerve function, and the general health of your feet.