For people with diabetes, there is a need to take care of their feet on a daily basis. Having diabetes can increase your risk of foot ulcers and other serious complications. Diabetes Australia recommends that diabetics should check their feet daily for changes and to visit a podiatrist annually for a check up or more frequently if your feet are at high risk.
As a diabetic, your feet are at risk because diabetes can cause damage to the nerves in your feet and affect the blood circulation.
It is important to check your feet every day. If you see any of the following it is important to get medical treatment that day. Problems include ulcers, unusual swelling, redness, blisters, ingrown nails and bruising or cuts.
Poor blood glucose management can cause nerve damage to feet. Symptoms include numbness, coldness of the legs, tingling such as pins and needles sensation in the feet, or burning pains in the legs and feet, usually more noticeable in bed at night.
See your podiatrist, doctor or credentialled diabetes educator if you have any of these symptoms.
