There are two type of Diabetes; Type 1 and Type 2 and both can be harmful to your feet. Poor circulation and changes in sensation (neuropathy) frequently occur to the lower limb and the feet as a result of poorly controlled glucose levels. We complete Neurovascular assessments for all diabetic consultations to monitor changes to circulation and sensation.
Diabetic Neuropathy, can cause changes to levels of sensation an ability to accurately feel pain, heat or cold. Diabetics suffering from neuropathy can develop minor cuts, scrapes, blisters, or pressure sores that they may not be aware of. If these minor injuries are left untreated, complications may result and lead to ulceration and possibly even amputation.
Peripheral arterial disease often appears in conjunction with diabetes due to raised cholesterol levels. If the blood supply becomes inhibited, the healing capability is reduced or delayed meaning that wounds may quickly become infected and if left, due to lack of sensation, become ulcerated and may lead to amputation.
We assess your circulation using a doppler to listen into your heart and health of your arterial supply. It is not uncommon for us to detect irregularities within the heart. If this is detected with can run a simple echocardiogram (ECG) to inform our report writing to your GP for further assessment.
If we have any concerns with the health of your arteries and feel that we would like to run further assessment, we are well skilled in performing Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) tests. This assessment is used to detect arterial insufficiency, such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), which can cause blockages in the arteries of the legs.
It is recommended by National Institute for Health and Care Excellence that thorough annual check-ups are completed and a risk status provided for Diabetic sufferers, dependant upon the results of your screening, you may benefit from consultations every 6-8 weeks or at 3-6 month intervals.
The results from your diabetic foot screening, your GP will receive an up to date report to accompany your medical record. If we detect any changes, these will be explained to you during your consultation.
Podiatrists at South Devon Foot Clinic are highly skilled in diabetic foot care and can promptly support you in the management of your condition.
