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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    How often should I examine my feet if I have diabetes?

    Related Topics
    Endocrinology Type 2 Diabetes
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    Thanks

    Peta Tauchmann

    Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE), Diabetes Educator, Registered Nurse

    I have a special interest in Type 1 Diabetes, optimising insulin therapy and Insulin pump therapy. I focus on the private sector including private clinics and consulting roles.   My … View Profile

    A  person with diabetes should examine their feet every day.  This should include a visual inspection of your skin, toes and nails, the areas under your feet and between the toes, and pressure points such as heels and joints.
    You are looking for changes in your feet- that can mean small areas of redness or a wound caused by injury.  What is important is an awareness that serious foot problems occur through ignoring small issues.  If you find a wound simple first aid will suffice, and if you find a wound is not healing, or is worsening, you should visit your doctor for professiional advice. 
    Podiatry is recommended at least once each year.  This will check for the things you can't see- poor circulation and hidden problems under the skin.  A podiatrist is a specialist in foot function and can help when you have problems with shoes that don't fit properly or pain in the legs and back from poor foot function. 
    Ask your doctor about a Medicare referral to a podiatrist.

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