Diabetes Management: Are You Paying Attention to Your Feet?

If you are living with diabetes, dedicating specific attention to the health of your feet is absolutely essential. At Donwood Foot and Orthotic Clinic, your local Chiropodist clinic in Don Mills, North York, we provide specialized diabetic foot care to help keep your feet healthy. Diabetes can unfortunately lead to certain complications that significantly increase the risk of serious foot problems developing.

Why It's So Important / The Risks:

Individuals with diabetes face a higher likelihood of foot issues, primarily stemming from two common complications:

1. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): Damage to the nerves, particularly in the feet, leading to a loss of sensation. This means you might not be able to feel pain, temperature changes (hot or cold), or even injuries like cuts, blisters, or foreign objects in your shoe.

2. Poor Blood Circulation: Diabetes can also negatively impact blood flow, especially to your lower legs and feet. Reduced circulation compromises your body's natural ability to heal. Even a very small cut or blister can struggle to heal properly, making it vulnerable to infection or developing into a non-healing wound known as an ulcer.

Potential Complications:

• Persistent numbness, tingling, burning, or altered sensations.

• A heightened risk of developing potentially serious foot infections.

• The formation of foot ulcerations (open sores that are slow to heal).

• Difficulties with nail care due to thickness, brittleness, or ingrown nails, requiring professional attention.

• In severe situations, a risk of amputation.

What Specialized Diabetic Foot Care Involves:

• Education is Key: We explain your individual risk factors and educate you on preventative measures to help you protect your foot health.

• Comprehensive Assessment & Treatment: We provide thorough foot examinations including circulation checks, neuropathy screening, skin integrity inspection, and toenail evaluation. We offer treatments for numbness, circulation issues, nail care, wound care, and infections.

• Regular Check-ups: Canadian diabetic guidelines strongly recommend a comprehensive foot examination by a licensed Chiropodist at least once per year – even if you aren't currently experiencing any noticeable foot problems.

Key Takeaways:

• Heightened Risk: Diabetes frequently leads to nerve damage (neuropathy) and reduced blood circulation in the feet.

• Primary Dangers: Neuropathy can mask injuries, while poor circulation hinders healing, increasing the risk of infections and ulcers.

• Essential Care: Regular professional assessments, patient education, specialized treatments, and vigilant monitoring.

• Annual Exam: Recommended for everyone with diabetes annually by Canadian guidelines, regardless of current symptoms.

Getting Diabetic Foot Care:

Prioritizing your foot health is an integral part of your overall diabetes management plan. Here at Donwood Foot and Orthotic Clinic, serving patients in Don Mills and North York, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive diabetic foot care including specialized assessments, ongoing treatment programs, preventative education, and therapies designed for individuals with diabetes. Please schedule your recommended annual diabetic foot assessment, or book sooner if you have any concerns.

Extended Health Benefits Accepted