Diabetes UK states that in 2023 5 million people in the UK are living with diabetes. But what do feet have to do with diabetes?
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic disease in which the body struggles to produce the insulin it needs or utilise the insulin it has. This in turn can have lasting effects on the body, particularly the feet. Raised glucose levels can cause the feet to lose sensation and can damage circulation causing a reduced blood supply.
Why is this a problem?
Reduced sensation in the feet means any cuts or sores that develop will not be felt and a reduced blood supply means the body will struggle to heal these areas. This means that something as simple as blister or a cut can go unnoticed and without intervention this can fast turn into an infected ulcer, which can develop into osteomyelitis (an infection of the bone) and even worse could result in amputation. Some patients may also develop a condition called Charcot foot which if untreated can lead to foot deformity or amputation.
How can this be prevented?
There are many ways in which this can be prevented:
- Good management of diabetes can help
- Regularly taking time to check your feet thoroughly.
- Wearing good fitting footwear with little to no seams that would cause areas of pressure – if you are prone to ulceration orthotic footwear may be necessary.
- Wearing slippers indoors and reducing the number of times you walk around barefoot.
- Wearing a custom total contact insole from an orthotist – this helps to reduce plantar pressures and can offload any ulcerated areas to aid with healing.
- If you are prone to ulceration regularly visiting a podiatrist can help to maintain good foot health.
If you suffer from diabetes and are concerned about your feet book today for an orthotic assessment!
Written by Becca Collingwood