Diabetes and Feet
Many of us would have heard of the word diabetes, and understand that it is a condition characterised by increased sugar concentration within the blood. Many, also, are unaware of the dangers of diabetes and in some cases that they even have diabetes. Yet diabetes is one of the leading causes of death worldwide and places a significant financial burden on health services. Diabetes care in the UK costs billions on a yearly basis, and worldwide the cost is over one trillion pounds.
Diabetes and Feet
Annual global cost of diabetes: over £1 Trillion
Annual cost of diabetes in the UK is £Billions
Diabetes is the leading cause of lower limb amputations in UK
These costs are due to the complications of the disease, such as kidney failure, stroke, blindness and heart disease. The lower limb is also affected, in fact diabetes related foot diseases have major consequences in terms of morbidity and associated mortality. The good news is that, carefully managed, diabetes can be effectively controlled and even reversed.
Diabetes can lead to a loss of sensation in the feet, rendering the sufferer unable to detect if they have a cut or scrap on the foot. In the worst case scenario this cut can become an ulcer, which is a wound that fails to heal. Infection can then set in, followed by gangrene which may then require amputation of the affected area, which could include a toe, foot or even leg. This is obviously the worst-case scenario, but it highlights the importance of foot care for those with diabetes. On occasions, dislocation and fragility of the bones in the foot occur, this can eventually lead to deformity of the foot, and make walking a challenge.
Maintaining your regular podiatry appointments is very important, as simple problems such as corns and calluses, if left untreated, can progress to something far more serious. Raymond Nash can not only assess your feet, but can also help to keep them in great condition.
Assessment can help prevent
– Foot deformity
– Ulcers
– Amputation
For those who do have diabetes, you will most probably be under the care of your doctor and be required to have an annual foot check. This foot check is important as it will assess the health of the feet, and determine if the feet are at risk of developing serious problems. The assessment will normally involve checking nerve function, circulation and the skin.