Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. One of the most common complications of diabetes is diabetic foot ulcers, which can lead to serious infections and even amputations if left untreated. That’s why regular diabetic foot checks during podiatrist visits are an important part of diabetes management.
What are diabetic foot checks?
Diabetic foot checks involve a podiatrist performing a comprehensive examination of the feet to identify any abnormalities or potential problems. This may include examining the skin, nails, and sensation in the feet. The goal of diabetic foot checks is to identify any issues early on and prevent the development of foot ulcers.
Why are diabetic foot checks important?
Diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and reduced blood flow (peripheral arterial disease) to the feet. This can lead to reduced sensation and slow healing of wounds, making foot ulcers more likely to develop. Regular podiatry visits can help identify any changes or abnormalities in the feet and prevent complications before they occur.
Who should I visit a Podiatrist to have diabetic foot checks?
Everyone with diabetes should have a regular podiatrist who can treat your feet and perform regular foot checks, regardless of whether they have symptoms or not. This includes people with type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes. The frequency of podiatry visits may vary depending on individual risk factors, such as the presence of neuropathy or peripheral arterial disease.
How often should diabetic foot checks be done?
Research shoes that that people with diabetes who have no known foot issues should have their feet checked at least once a year by a podiatrist. However, those with high-risk foot conditions benefit from regular podiatry visits every 6 weeks. It’s important to follow your podiatrist’s recommendations regarding the frequency of diabetic foot checks to ensure best possible foot health.
What can you expect during a diabetic foot check?
During a podiatry visits and diabetic foot check, the podiatrist will examine your feet for any signs of injury or abnormalities. This will include checking the skin for dryness, cracking or sores, and examine the nails for signs of fungal infection. The podiatrist may also test the sensation in your feet by using a monofilament or tuning fork to check for neuropathy. If we detect any changes in your feet, we may refer you to a Doctor for further testing, or increase the frequency of podiatry visits to keep a close eye on things. In conclusion, regular podiatry visits including diabetic foot checks are an essential part of diabetes management. By identifying any issues early on, foot ulcers and other complications can be prevented. If you have diabetes, make sure to schedule regular foot checks with podiatrist and follow their recommendations for foot care.
Is this funded?
In Australia there is some funding available for diabetic management. Speak with your GP regarding Medicare, DVA or Home Care Package Funding.