If you have diabetes – watch your feet
Podiatrist Maria Zauner from Suncoast Podiatry visits to coast to help protect feet from harm of diabetes complications
Diabetes is serious, especially when your feet are involved.
People with diabetes are more prone to various foot problems due to the development of painful nerve damage called peripheral neuropathy.
Maria Zauner from Suncoast Podiatry said, “The damage to your nerves can cause the loss of feeling in your feet, making it difficult to detect extreme temperatures and pain as easily, or readily, as someone who does not have diabetes.
“So you could sustain a serious wound and not even notice your foot is injured until an infection begins.”
She urges that you examine your feet daily.
“This is one of the easiest, least expensive and most effective measures for preventing foot complications,” said Maria.
“Noticeable changes, such as temperature, skin colour, pain, or swelling may be warning signs for poor circulation or loss of sensation that could potentially lead to something more serious.”
Annual examinations by your podiatrist are also vital for anyone with diabetes.
Maria explains, “A podiatrist provides a more thorough exam and detects signs of changes, such as broken skin or ulcers that can be detrimental. We also check for areas of high pressure or loss of blood circulation.”
Be sure to:
- Avoid smoking, as it reduces blood flow to your feet
- Buy comfortable shoes that are not too tight or too loose
- Wear clean, dry socks and change them everyday
- Wear shoes to protect your feet from harmful objects
Podiatrists, Maria, Erin or Amy visit the Professional Centre at the Dolphin Shopping Centre, Tin Can Bay on Wednesdays, Thursdays and every second Friday. Home visits are also available.
If you are among one of the millions of people in the Australia with diabetes, call Suncoast Podiatry today on 5483 7881, and see what you can do now, to keep your feet safe, strong, and healthy.
