What is a diabetic foot?
A diabetic foot results from long-term elevated blood glucose levels in diabetes. This can lead to nerve damage (neuropathy) and reduced blood flow in the feet. As a result, wounds are less felt and heal slower, increasing the risk of infections and complications.
Complaints
A diabetic foot can cause various symptoms, such as:
- Reduced sensation or tingling in the feet
- Cold feet or colour changes
- Pressure spots or calluses
- Hard-to-heal wounds
- Pain or no pain due to loss of sensation
What can a podiatrist do?
The podiatrist carefully examines the feet to detect risks in time. Based on this, advice can be given on whether and what treatment is needed, for example
- Diabetic foot screening
- Podiatric insoles to reduce pressure
- Treatment of calluses and pressure spots
- Shoe advice or adjustments for better foot comfort
- Control and monitoring of wounds
- Education on daily foot examination
Recovery
Recovery in a diabetic foot focuses on preventing and reducing complications. Timely treatment can reduce pressure on vulnerable areas, promote healing and greatly reduce the risk of wounds. In addition, good shoes, regular check-ups and daily foot care are essential to keep the feet healthy and resilient.