Diabetes and the feet
We are here to treat patients who have been discharged from the NHS Podiatry team. Untreated wounds, ulcer or loss of sensation are very serious medical conditions and need to be regularly monitored and treated by a specialist in this field, such as a podiatrist.
Diabetes significantly affects your feet.
It can reduce the blood flow to the foot and reduce its ability to heal.
It can also cause a loss of sensation in your feet (often starting at the toes) and is referred to as peripheral neuropathy. Sometimes, the loss of feeling in the feet can also involve a burning sensation that can be irritated by the wearing of shoes and socks and is worse at night. This is known as painful peripheral neuropathy.
In our diabetic assessment we will check your ability to sense pressure, temperature and vibration. We also use a doppler to assess the circulation in your feet. We will usually pass on your result to your GP if you wish.
When to contact us:
- If you notice a break in the skin on your feet
- Discharge from any wound
- Your skin on any part of your feet changes in colour. It may appear blue/red/pale or dark
- A swelling occurs in your feet after having a blister or injury
- You notice redness or swelling around an ulcer