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Written by our Canadian Certified Pedorthist
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease which is characterized by the body’s inability to process a hormone called insulin. Insulin allows glucose to leave the blood stream and enter cells of the body to then be used asan energy source. High blood glucose levels are harmful and can lead to serious health issues.
How Does Diabetes Affect my Feet?
Diabetes affects all parts of the body including the feet. Feet are particularly prone to the effects of decreased circulation and decreased sensation caused by diabetes.
Corn/ callous
Complications can range from mild to severe. Examples of mild complications are reddened areas from rubbing or pressure, a blister, a callous or a corn. These problems can become more severe with time if not addressed.
Wounds/Ulcers
Severe complications can include wounds (or ulcers) and foot infections. Wounds most often occur on the tips of the toes, under the ball, or the heels but can occur anywhere on the feet.
Charcot foot
Charcot Foot is most often related to diabetes and involves fractures and/or dislocations of the midfoot bones resulting in deformity. An ulcer can also occur at the site of this deformity underneath the foot.
How we help
Looking after foot health is important for everyone, but caring for a diabetic foot requires a little more time and attention. A full team of health care professionals provides the best outcomes – family doctor, certified Pedorthist, Podiatrist, foot health nurse (wound care nurse) and last but most importantly - YOU!
At Paris, we see many patients with diabetic foot ulcers that could be prevented if precautions were taken to protect their feet. We want to bring awareness to foot health for people with diabetes when newly diagnosed, so we can prevent diabetic foot complications.
At Paris, we offer strategies to minimize the likelihood of a diabetic foot complication with footwear & orthotic interventions.