Diabetic Assessment
Problem prevention and care plans for diabetics and chronic conditions.
Diabetic Assessment
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.
The benefits of seeing your podiatrist regularly:
- Early Detection of Problems
- Prevention of Complications
- Customized Foot Care Education
- Management of Foot Pain and Discomfort
- Wound Care Management
- Overall Diabetes Management
Book an Appointment with Us
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General Questions
Here you may find answers to questions some of our clients have asked before. If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us, we’ll be glad to assist.
Diabetes can lead to nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor blood circulation, particularly affecting the feet. This can make it hard to notice wounds or infections, which, if untreated, can lead to severe complications, including the risk of amputation.
Common signs include numbness, tingling, pain, swelling, and changes in skin color. It's also important to watch for cuts, blisters, or sores that don't heal normally.
Daily foot inspections are recommended to check for injuries or infections that might not be felt due to neuropathy. This is crucial as minor injuries can develop into serious complications if not treated promptly.
Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that occur primarily on the bottom of the foot. Managing blood glucose levels, keeping the ulcer clean and bandaged, and using off-loading techniques to relieve pressure are essential parts of treatment. Regular visits to FITFEET for professional wound management can also prevent complications and aid healing.
Yes, by managing blood glucose levels effectively, wearing appropriate footwear, and conducting regular foot checks. Regular foot examinations at FITFEET can also help prevent issues from developing or worsening.
Podiatrists like FITFEET are crucial in preventing and managing foot complications related to diabetes. We perform regular foot screenings, treat conditions like ulcers and infections, and provide guidance on proper foot care to prevent serious complications.
You can reach out to FITFEET on (08) 6245 0070 with your questions and concerns. Alternatively, you can also visit Diabetes Australia for more detailed guidance.
