Winter is still on its way and as the weather gets colder and the nights draw in, we continue our winter blog. In this instalment we discuss care for diabetic feet and what we can do to help maintain your foot health this winter.
What can happen if I have diabetes and do not look after my feet?
Patients who have diabetes are more at risk of developing a foot complication, which can include an ulcer (non-healing wound), serious infection of the foot such as osteomyelitis (an infection of the bone) or sepsis. Foot complications can lead to toe amputation, with approximately 50% of amputations performed on diabetic patients each year.
What are the risk factors for developing a foot ulcer? What should I look out for?
- Dry skin or cracks on the heels
- Peripheral arterial disease (lack of blood flow to the foot)
- Peripheral neuropathy (loss of sensation or feeling in the foot)
- Structural foot issues (hammer toes / clawed toes that increase pressure)
- Significant callus (callus can build up and may ulcerate)
- Visual and mobility problems (stepping on items that could cause a wound)
How can Dulwich Podiatry help?
At Dulwich Podiatry our trained podiatrists can offer a diabetic foot assessment for patients in Dulwich and the surrounding areas.
Our complete diabetic foot assessment includes:
- a visual and hands-on assessment of the foot
- a vascular assessment of the main arteries of the foot
- an assessment of protective sensation in the foot
We can also identify and treat any issues such as corns and calluses in order to prevent a future ulcer; we can also provide education on how best to manage your feet between visits to make sure you maintain your foot health this winter.
Dulwich Podiatry also offers musculoskeletal (MSK) assessments as a separate service for those patients who can benefit from having an insole that will help to offload areas of the foot under excessive pressure.
