Every person living with Diabetes should attend annual foot screening, whether they have foot problems or not. Attending annual foot screening will help protect your feet and facilitate early detection of complications so that appropriate measures can be taken to prevent serious problems.
Diabetes can cause three main complications. You may develop circulation problems, the sensation in your feet may become reduced or absent and the shape of your feet could change.
No. These complications are avoidable. It is important to know that Diabetes is a progressive condition but if controlled well you can reduce the risk of serious complications developing, both in your feet and in other parts of your body.
Circulation problems are suspected if the clinician examining your feet cannot feel your foot pulses. This may indicate a need for more advanced investigation of your circulation.
Loss of sensation is detected by testing the feeling in your feet with a device called a 10g monofilament. You will be asked to close your eyes and answer yes when you feel a touch.
Diabetes can alter your foot shape. Usually, this can involve clawing of the toes and a higher arch position.
Based on the results of your foot screen, you will be advised what level of risk you have for developing Diabetic Foot Ulceration. You will then be provided with tailored foot-care advice and a recommended review period.