How to avoid the pitfalls- and footfalls- of diabetes

This month sees World Diabetes Day (14th). I appreciate not quite as exciting as World George Clooney Day (not just me, I’m sure!), but with over 3.2 million UK adults at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, it’s a good opportunity to focus on the body-wide impact of this condition.

Most people will have a general diabetes awareness of monitoring blood sugar, managing diet, and insulin injections. Some might include the health benefits of tailored exercise, but few will know how diabetes-connected foot issues risk life-limiting impacts if undiagnosed or untreated.

Why does diabetes affect feet?

Raised blood glucose levels affect circulation, making extremities like feet and toes extremely susceptible to reduced blood supply and nerve damage. This not only means cuts, blisters and sores not receiving enough nutrients to heal, but accompanying loss of feeling risks them going unnoticed, leading to ulcers, tissue wastage, even gangrene and, ultimately but not uncommonly, amputations. And no-one wants that!

Diabetic Footcare

Clearly, vigilance is key, especially as issues can come on gradually and unnoticeably. Check and wash your feet every day, drying thoroughly and applying a recommended moisturising cream (one with 25% urea) as advised. Keep appropriately active (always check with your doctor first), follow a healthy diet, and see a chiropodist for regular checkups. If you feel or spot anything new or concerning on your feet; from a cut, blister, sore, damage or change in skin colour and texture, then contact us or your GP.