best foot forward

Managing your diabetes is the first step to preventing problems with your feet. The NDSS shares their advice on how to keep your feet healthy.

People with diabetes are more likely to develop problems with their feet. You can reduce the risk by managing your diabetes and taking good care of your feet, having regular foot checks and timely treatment by a health professional. Foot problems cause less damage when detected and treated early.

What is your risk of developing a foot problem?

YOU HAVE VERY LOW-RISK FEET IF YOU:

❱ do not have any nerve damage in your feet

❱ have normal blood flow in or to your feet

YOU HAVE LOW-RISK FEET IF YOU:

❱ have reduced blood flow and weak pulses in your feet

❱ have reduced sensation from nerve damage in your feet

❱ do not have any changes in the skin or shape of your feet

YOU HAVE MODERATE-RISK FEET IF YOU:

❱ have any combination of changes in the shape, reduced blood flow and reduced sensation in your feet

YOU HAVE HIGH-RISK FEET IF YOU HAVE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:

❱ reduced blood flow and sensation together with a history of foot ulcer, previous lower limb amputation or kidney disease

Ask a professional

WHEN TO HAVE HEALTH PROFESSIONAL FOOT CHECKS

■ If you have very low-risk feet, have a yearly foot check.

■ If you have low-risk feet, have your feet checked at least once a year.

■ If you have moderate-risk feet, have your feet checked every 3-6 months.

■ If you have high-risk feet, have your feet checked at least every 1-3 months.

See a doctor or podiatrist earlier if you notice any changes in your feet.