The feet are commonly involved in diabetes mellitus (DM) and other chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
A simple nick to the toe may be devastatingly complicated by diabetes. DM reduces the sensitivity of the feet due to neuropathic injury/nerve damage.
At the same time, DM slows wound healing and makes you predisposed to infections. All of these elements work together to turn it into a festering sore.
Patients with DM and Footcare
This category of patients requires advice and education on the right kind of footwear and basic tips on foot care. This is essential as even common issues such as corns and calluses may be detrimental to diabetics.
They require vascular and neurological testing services to detect problems as early as possible. Early detection helps to limit damage and reduce the risk of complications and amputation. Therefore, regular screening should be done.
Foot care tips from podiatrists
Podiatrists play an important part in the management of DM in patients
DM and other chronic illnesses typically require multidisciplinary care made up of a team of physicians, nurses, physiotherapists, and ophthalmologists etc.
Podiatrists are an invaluable part of the team for DM and chronic illnesses that affect the feet.
They can assess the extent of nerve damage in your feet, identify specific health risks, and help tailor a treatment plan for you [1].
Here are a few roles podiatrists play in diabetes management
It’s best to have a podiatrist you can call on at any time or at least easy access to a qualified one. In the Gold Coast, for the best mobile and home-based podiatry services, look no further than The Foot Stop. With qualified professionals who are well versed in chronic disease foot care, you’re sure to receive the care you deserve.
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