What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a lifelong condition that causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high.  There are 3.2 million people diagnosed with diabetes in the UK and an estimated 630,000 people who have the condition, but don’t know it.

How does this affect the feet?

Diabetes causes fluctuations in blood sugar levels, playing havoc with blood flow to your extremities.  As your feet don’t receive as much blood, the nerve endings can be affected with reduced sensitivity, so you don’t get the usual pain and discomfort warning signs telling you that something is wrong. Feet heal slowly so sores and fissures can become infected and even gangrenous if not treated in time.

What can you do to help?

Other than maintaining your blood sugars, pay extra special care with your feet.  Keep them clean and dry. If they tend to get a little sweaty, change your socks regularly and wear shoes that allow your feet to breathe.  If your feet tend to be on the dry side, moisturise using a cream free from lanolin, added fragrances and any of the additives that can sometimes irritate the skin.  Be aware and reduce the risk of injury.  Avoid anything that might squash or reduce blood flow to your feet, such as uncomfortable shoes or sitting with your legs crossed.

Finally make sure you have your feet checked regularly by a foot health professional; a chiropodist, foot health practitioner or diabetic nurse. That way you can catch problems before they develop further. For more information www.diabetes.org.uk.

Sarah Clears DipCFHP, MPSPract, Foot Health Practitioner, is available every Monday at The Clinic at the Green Parrot, £22 a treatment.  Call 01760 724704 to book your appointment.