Diabetic Foot Complications

Diabetes can affect the nerves and blood supply to the feet. This means that small problems, such as a blister or a patch of hard skin, can become serious if they are not spotted and treated early. Regular podiatry care and checking your feet every day are the best ways to keep your feet healthy. An annual foot check, ideally carried out by a podiatrist or nurse, is recommended to help prevent diabetes-related foot complications.

Or call 02920 644900 · info@feetinfocus.com

Symptoms

Numbness, tingling, burning or loss of feeling in the feet
Cold feet, or changes in the colour of the skin
Cuts or blisters that are slow to heal
Cramp in the calves when walking that eases with rest
Hard skin, corns or cracked heels
Changes in the shape of the feet
Thickened or discoloured toenails

Common causes

High blood sugar levels over time, which can damage the nerves in the feet
Narrowing of the blood vessels, which reduces circulation
Dry skin, caused by changes in the nerves that control sweating
Smoking
Poorly fitting shoes
Reduced eyesight or mobility, which can make it harder to check your feet

What else can look similar

Nerve damage from other causes, such as vitamin B12 deficiency
Peripheral arterial disease
Chilblains
Athlete’s foot and fungal nail infections
Corns and hard skin

What you can try at home

Check your feet every day, using a mirror or asking someone to help if needed
Wash your feet daily and dry them well, especially between the toes
Moisturise dry skin, but not between the toes
Never walk barefoot, even indoors
Wear well-fitting shoes, and check inside them before you put them on
Do not use corn plasters, acids or sharp instruments on your feet
Keep your blood sugar in your target range, and stop smoking
If you notice a wound, blister, redness, swelling or heat, or a change in the shape of your foot, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist or alternatively your GP as soon as possible

How we can help

A diabetic foot assessment, checking the circulation and feeling in your feet, with a full written report
Routine care of nails, corns and hard skin, carried out safely by an HCPC registered podiatrist
Advice on daily foot care and footwear
Padding and orthoses to take pressure off areas at risk
Regular reviews to spot problems early
Liaison with your GP and referral to the NHS diabetes foot team when needed

Which appointment to book

If you have diabetes, you are recommended to book one of the following appointments:

A diabetic foot assessment, for a full check of your feet
A routine podiatry appointment, for ongoing care of nails and skin

If you are not sure which appointment is right for you, call us on 02920 644900 or email info@feetinfocus.com and we will help.

Common questions

How often should I have my feet checked?

Everyone with diabetes should have their feet checked at least once a year. If you have reduced feeling, poor circulation or have had foot problems before, you will need checks more often. Your podiatrists will advise you on how often to come back.

Can I cut my own toenails?

If you have good feeling and circulation in your feet and can see and reach them easily, you can usually cut your nails yourself, straight across and not too short. If you have reduced feeling, poor circulation or difficulty reaching your feet, it is safer to have your nails cut by a podiatrist.

Can I see you alongside my NHS diabetes care?

Yes. We offer private diabetic foot assessments and routine care that work alongside your NHS care. If we find anything that needs NHS input, we will let your GP know and help you get the right referral.