Are you diabetic? Don’t be a statistic and risk losing a foot or a leg! Let us check your feet and show you how to prevent problems occurring. Diabetes disrupts the vascular system affecting many areas of the body, such as eyes, kidneys, legs and feet. This can result in poor circulation and nerve damage. As a Diabetic (Type 1 and Type 2) you are encouraged to have your feet checked annually.
Patients who suffer from Diabetes and other chronic conditions that can affect the feet can receive a care plan which will allow you to have up to 5 visits per calendar year paid by medicare. See your GP for details.
Foot Care and Diabetes
Caring for your feet is very important as long term problems with your feet and legs could eventually lead to amputation. Inspect your feet daily, after your shower as you dry your feet is a good opportunity. Look for any redness, swelling, blisters, corns, calluses or cuts. If you have difficulty reaching your feet, use a mirror or have someone look at them for you. If you find a problem, see your doctor or podiatrist as soon as possible. This greatly reduces the risk of damage to the feet that can lead to amputation.
Diabetes in Australia
Diabetes is the fastest growing condition in Australia. It is estimated that there are currently 1.7 million Australians living with diabetes, yet only 1.1 million of these people know that they have diabetes. Diabetes has overtaken heart disease as the leading cause of the disease burden in Australia.
Diabetes in WA
On average, 28 people are diagnosed every day in WA; more than 1 every hour. There are currently more than 120,000 people living with some form of diabetes in WA. Of these:
- 87% live with type 2 diabetes
- 10% live with type 1 diabetes
- 3% have gestational diabetes
Your Feet and Diabetes
Diabetes can damage the nerves and blood vessels in the feet, putting people living with the condition at risk of ulcers and infections, loss of feeling and amputations.
Diabetes causes 85 foot amputations in Australia every week, and 4,400 each year. 70% of all lower limb amputations occur in people with diabetes. Major amputations (leg) are more common in persons with diabetes than in those without the disease. Minor amputations (toe or foot) are 5 times more common.