Diabetes

It is important to look after your feet when you have diabetes because small problems can turn into severe complications.

Glucose, a form of sugar, is the main source of energy for our bodies. Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot maintain healthy levels of glucose in the blood. Diabetes can cause damage to the nerves in your feet, blood circulation and infection.

Our Diabetic Assessments focus on testing the feeling and circulation in your feet. Daily care can prevent serious complications. ProPodiary Clinic’s Podiatrists will provide you with advice on how to maintain good foot health in between your Podiatry visits.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic Neuropathy simply put is a loss of protective sensation resulting from damage to the nerves over time. Approximately half the patients with diabetes will experience neuropathy. There are many types of neuropathy, with Peripheral Nephropathy being the most common. This is where nerve damage to the peripheral nerves can cause feeling of numbness and pain to feet and hands. This loss of feeling places diabetics at an increased risk for ulcerations and amputations. Therefore, early diagnosis can improve quality of life and reduce risks of complications.  Read more about other types of Diabetic Neuropathy here.

Poor Circulation

Poor blood glucose control can result in reduced supply of blood to the feet. This places diabetics at a greater risk of inflection following any injury that breaks the skin. Left untreated increase the risk for ulceration and amputation. Signs of poor blood supply are:

  • Feet feeling cold

  • Sharp leg cramps or pain when walking short distances, improved by rest

  • Pain in the feet, even at rest

  • Feet looking a reddish-blue colour

Caring For Your Feet

Visit a Podiatrist annually for a check up or at greater frequencies if your feet are at high risk. In addition to regular check ups with a Podiatrist, you should also:

  • Don’t wear tight socks or stockings

  • Never use over-the-counter corn cures

  • Check your feet daily - look for signs of redness, swelling, cuts, pus discharge, splinters, blisters.

  • Moisturise your feet daily to avoid dry skin

  • Get medical advice early if you notice any changes or problems

Rebates

  • Medicare may provide a rebate on Podiatrist fees if you have a chronic condition and are referred by your doctor.

  • Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) gold card holders are entitled to free Podiatry services from private Podiatrists.

  • Private health funds cover some podiatry fees, but its important to check with your health insurance provider.

Please visit Diabetes Australia to learn more about Diabetes.

Find Us

South Melbourne

ProPodiatry Clinic South Melbourne
Level 1/111 Cecil St
South Melbourne VIC 3205
Phone: (03) 9284 3400

Brunswick

ProPodiatry Clinic Brunswick
30 Sydney Rd
Brunswick VIC 3056
Phone: (03) 8388 5200