If you live with diabetes, you are much more likely to develop foot problems. These can include ulcers, infections and nerve damage, and for some people may lead to hospital treatment or amputation.
Advice for People in Cheltenham, Cirencester & the South West
The good news is that most diabetic foot problems can be prevented. By taking care of your feet and checking them regularly, you can significantly reduce your risk.
This advice is especially important for people living in Cheltenham, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Somerset and Worcestershire, where NHS foot protection and podiatry services are available.
Diabetes and Foot Care
Diabetes can reduce feeling in your feet (called peripheral neuropathy) and affect blood flow. This means:
- Injuries may go unnoticed
- Wounds can take longer to heal
- Infections can develop quickly
If you’ve lost feeling in your feet, it may be harder to care for them yourself. Speak to your GP, diabetes nurse or local podiatry team. You may be referred to a foot protection service for extra support.
You can also download or order the free guide “Diabetes and Looking After Your Feet”, available in multiple languages.
How to Check Your Feet
Checking your feet every day is one of the most important things you can do.
Look for:
- Redness or swelling
- Cuts, cracks or blisters
- Broken skin or sores
- Changes in colour or shape
If you notice anything unusual, contact Bourton Podiatry team as soon as possible.
10 Simple Steps to Prevent Diabetic Foot Problems
1. Stop Smoking
Smoking reduces blood flow to your feet and greatly increases the risk of amputation.
If you smoke, ask your GP or healthcare team in Cheltenham, Cirencester or nearby areas about support to quit.
2. Manage Blood Sugar, Cholesterol and Blood Pressure
Keeping your levels as close to target as possible helps protect:
- Nerves
- Blood vessels
- Skin and tissue in your feet
Ask about:
- Diabetes education courses
- Dietitian support
- Local diabetes support services
3. Check Your Feet Every Day
Foot problems can worsen quickly, especially if you have nerve damage.
- Check your feet morning and night
- Use a mirror to see the soles of your feet
- Ask someone to help if needed
If you’re unsure whether you’ve lost feeling, speak to a healthcare professional.
4. Eat Well and Stay Active
A healthy, balanced diet helps manage diabetes and reduces complications.
Staying active improves circulation, but if you have foot problems or limited mobility, ask your healthcare team about safe exercises that suit you.
5. Cut Your Toenails Carefully
If you have diabetes, even a small cut can lead to infection.
- Cut nails straight across
- Do not cut too short or down the sides
- File sharp edges with an emery board
- Clean nails gently using a nail brush
Wash your feet daily using warm (not hot) water and mild soap. Always test water temperature with your elbow or wrist.
If you have reduced sensation or problems such as ingrown nails, see a podiatrist.
6. Make Sure Your Footwear Fits Properly
Ill-fitting shoes are a common cause of diabetic foot problems.
Choose shoes that:
- Are wide-fitting
- Have a deep, rounded toe box
- Are flat or low-heeled
- Fasten securely with laces or buckles
Check inside shoes before wearing them and avoid socks with thick seams or holes.
If unsure, ask a registered podiatrist in Gloucestershire or surrounding counties for advice.
7. Use Moisturising Cream Every Day
Dry skin can crack and allow infection in.
- Use an emollient or urea-based cream daily
- Do not apply cream between your toes
- Avoid talcum powder between toes
Your healthcare team can recommend a suitable cream.
8. Avoid Blades and Corn Plasters
Do not use:
- Corn plasters
- Verruca treatments
- Blades or sharp tools
These can damage skin and cause ulcers. For corns or hard skin, see a podiatrist.
9. Get Expert Advice Early
Attend your annual NHS diabetes foot check, even if you feel your feet are fine.
If you notice a problem between checks:
- Do not wait
- Contact your GP or foot protection team
If you are classed as moderate or high risk, you should be referred for ongoing monitoring and specialist care.
10. Know Who to Call
Keep important contact numbers handy, including:
- Your GP surgery
- Local podiatry or foot protection team
- Out-of-hours medical service
Acting quickly can prevent serious complications.
If you would like to see a podiatrist and get some expert advice, contact the Head Clinician at the Bourton Podiatry one of the most respected Podiatrists in the Cotswolds area. Telephone: 01451 824301 or Website: https://bourtonpodiatry.com/contact/
courtesy of www.diabetes.org.uk.