Adam Smith Podiatry - Diabetes
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Diabetes

Not just high blood sugar

What is it?

Diabetes is a lifelong condition that results in prolonged high levels of sugar in the blood stream as a direct result of an insulin deficiency. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates the blood sugar levels.  There are 2 main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2.

The distinct difference is that Type 1 is an autoimmune disorder where the bodies immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin. Type 2 on the other hand is where there isn't enough insulin being produced due to prolonged increased consumption of sugar in the normal daily diet or the body doesn't react in the same way to the insulin being produced. Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90% of diabetes diagnoses in the UK.

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But how does this effect the feet?

Prolonged exposure to high levels of sugar in the blood stream can lead to a number of issues:

Sensation Changes

High sugar levels can attack the nerve fibres, changing sensation. This usually occurs to the peripheral nerves that 'feed' the feet.

Deformities of the toes

As with sensory nerves the motor nerves that instigate muscle function can be affected. This can lead to a change in strength, less flexibility in toes and a more rigid foot structure.

Wounds

Changes in foot structure can develop into high pressure areas which can breakdown and become a wound. Reduced blood supply to the feet means that delays in healing can also occur. 

Vascular Changes 

High sugar levels in the blood stream can lead to a narrowing and a reduction in elasticity of the arteries that supply the feet. Reduced blood flow and increased blood pressure also increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. 

Infection

Delayed healing and high sugar levels in the blood can allow bacterial infection to develop in an open wound. If unmanaged or caught too late, this can progress into gangrene, and in some cases amputation of the effected toe, foot or limb.


With the feet being so vulnerable to problems it is imperative that they are expertly looked after.

We routinely check all our patients with Diabetes to assess risk and changes that may be occurring. These checks can help prevent some of these issues:

  • Structural foot assessment for foot mobility

  • Blood pressure assessment 

  • Gait analysis to ascertain prominent high pressure areas

  • Ultrasound checks of the peripheral vascular system

  • Routine nail and skin care

  • Sensation checks of both feet every 6 months

  • Early management of wounds and antibiotic supply if required

We also have a number of products that help to manage your skin and nail care health between appointments, knowing that you are giving your feet the best care possible.

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