Diabetes

Did you know that Diabetes affects roughly 5 out of every 100 people in Australia?

The complications from Diabetes are wide ranging and can be simple to potentially life threatening. Luckily our understanding of Diabetes and the complications arising from it has increased significantly and we are able to manage complications while minimising the likelihood of amputations/serious complications.

There are two types of Diabetes that are chronic in nature, that being Type 1 and Type 2. The difference between these two types arises from the way your body responds to sugar and the hormones produced as a result to changes in blood sugar levels.

• Type 1 Diabetes is an auto-immune disease, where the body’s immune system attacks the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes require insulin injections for survival. The disease can occur at any age, although it mostly occurs in children and young adults.
• Type 2 Diabetes is associated various hereditary and enviromental risk factors including diet, activity level and increased body weight. Management of Type 2 Diabetes varies but can include: Lifestyle changes (Diet and exercise), or diabetic medication and insulin to help control blood sugar levels.

Australia has the second highest rate of Diabetes related amputations in the developed world.

Every year more than 4400 foot/leg/or below knee amputations occur as a result of complications from Diabetes. Diabetes related foot and lower limb disease has an approximate cost of around $875 Million every single year in Australia alone.

Diabetes is a silent disease, often progressing for years without detection or intervention. The various damage caused by Diabetes is mainly due to elevated levels of Glucose (Sugar) in the blood. This increased level of sugar causes stress through multiple pathways to structures within the body. Leading to reduced blood flow, nerve damage, tendon contracture, lowered levels of healing, and reduced soft tissue strength.

Early detection, management of disease and regular screening are vital tools in your foot health journey. 

As a part of your holistic approach to your Diabetes management you should be being screened for a variety of things. Your GP will be able to discuss these with you but at minimum should include: Minimum 12 monthly Neurovascular assessment, Yearly Eye exam, and 3 monthly Blood tests (Including Kidney function and average blood sugar levels).

Your Podiatrist will be able to tailor your treatment plan according to your overall risk status, as determined by Diabetes Australia, Queensland Health, and the World Health Organisation. Using these guidelines Complete Feet Orthotics & Podiatry aim to reduce the number of cases of lower limb amputations and improve the overall quality of life of people living with Diabetes. Enabling you to find your feet and enjoy life.