Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes glucose (sugar) in the blood. It can cause long-term health problems, including foot problems. That’s why it’s important to take care of your feet if you have diabetes.

Diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation, which can result in a loss of sensation in the feet. This can make it difficult for you to feel cuts, blisters, or other foot injuries. If left untreated, even small injuries can quickly become infected and lead to more serious problems, such as ulcers or in some cases amputations.

To keep your feet healthy if you have diabetes, it’s important to:

• Inspect your feet daily: Look for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or any other signs of injury or infection. Use a mirror to check the bottoms of your feet if necessary.
• Keep your feet clean and dry: Wash your feet every day with warm water and mild soap and make sure they’re completely dry before putting on socks or shoes.
• Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes: Choose shoes that provide good support and cushioning and avoid shoes with tight or pointy toes. Avoid going barefoot, even at home.
• Take care of your skin: Apply moisturiser to your feet every day to keep your skin soft and supple. Avoid using lotions between your toes, as this can create a moist environment that’s conducive to infection.
• Keep your blood sugar levels under control: Maintaining good blood sugar control can help prevent nerve damage and other complications associated with diabetes.

If you have diabetes, it’s important to have regular foot exams by a healthcare provider, as well as any necessary treatments, to keep your feet healthy and prevent serious problems from developing.

Foot Forward

Another great resource is the National Diabetes Services Scheme’s Foot Forward website at footforward.org.au. They have factsheets on how to look after your feet, looking after your toenails, what to do about foot problems, visiting a podiatrist and common food problems. Visit footforward.org.au/keep-your-feet-healthy/resources to find these factsheets.

Logan Healthy Living

Logan Healthy Living has bulk-billed programs providing practical support to prevent and manage diabetes, obesity and chronic diseases.

Their team consists of exercise physiology, health psychology, physiotherapy, dietetics, diabetes education, and social work. All of which are here for you and what you need, at whatever stage of health you are currently at.

Logan Healthy Living is located at Meadowbrook Medical Centre, Level 1/12-16 Logandowns Dr, Meadowbrook QLD 4131.

Contact the team on (07) 3365 1057 between 8am – 4pm Monday to Friday.

Visit loganhealthyliving.org.au for more information.