In most cases, serious foot problems can be prevented. You can do this by checking your feet yourself every day, and having a foot check at least once a year by qualified health professional. Everyone with diabetes should have an annual foot check, so make sure you get yours. They will check your feet but also tell you your level of risk of foot problems.
Podiatrists play a central role in conducting non-invasive vascular assessment in the lower extremity. This involves screening for signs and symptoms of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and on going monitoring of the condition.
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is the name given to vascular disease that occurs in the peripheral arteries of the body, such as the legs and feet. It is a circulatory problem that results from fatty plaque accumulation in peripheral arteries. These plaques, which consist of cholesterol, calcium and low-density lipoproteins, thicken and harden over time causing narrowing of the arteries. The narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, meaning that the extremities – usually the legs and feet have a reduced blood supply.
What does a Diabetic/Vascular assessment involve?
A podiatrist will carry out a complete medical and surgical history, including current medication (please bring an up to date list with you) and key personal information, such as activity types and levels, and review presenting CVD risk factors such as smoking status, diet and nutrition.
Patients will be asked about their symptoms and how these impact their day-to-day activities. This will help to establish any potential risks, and determine the effect of this history on lower-limb health, function and performance.
The diagnosis and extent of disease is confirmed by a full, non-invasive assessment, which includes:
This can be completed as part of a general Foot Health assessment or part of an annual diabetic assessment.
To arrange an appointment for an assessment please e-mail info@wwpodiatry.co.uk or call 0177 708 867.
Monofilament testing is a non invasive test for assessing the loss of protective sensation in the foot, and it is recommended by several practice guidelines to detect peripheral neuropathy in otherwise normal feet. This will enable the Podiatrist to check if you have sensation in your feet and identify any numbness which increases the risk of foot problems developing and ulceration developing.
This will involve the use of
10g Monofilament
and/or 128hz Tuning Fork
To arrange an appointment for an assessment please e-mail info@wwpodiatry.co.uk or call 0177 708 867.
