Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood glucose. Among its many complications, one of the most serious and life-altering is lower limb amputation. Foot-related issues are a leading cause of hospitalisation among people with diabetes, and many of these cases are preventable with timely intervention from qualified healthcare providers, particularly podiatrists.
Podiatrists are trained to detect early signs of foot problems in individuals with diabetes. They provide ongoing care that plays a critical role in avoiding severe complications. In regions such as Claremont and other parts of Australia, individuals living with diabetes are increasingly turning to specialists like a podiatrist in Claremont to manage their foot health and reduce the risk of amputation.
This article explores the pivotal role that podiatrists play in diabetic foot care and how regular assessments, preventative strategies and timely treatments can dramatically lower the risk of amputation.
The Link Between Diabetes and Foot Complications
Diabetes can damage various parts of the body, but the feet are especially vulnerable. High blood sugar levels can impair circulation and damage the nerves in the lower limbs, a condition known as diabetic peripheral neuropathy. This condition results in a loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult for individuals to detect injuries, pressure points or infections.
In addition to neuropathy, diabetes also affects the vascular system. Poor blood flow, known as peripheral arterial disease, delays wound healing and increases the risk of infection. When a minor cut or blister goes unnoticed and untreated, it can progress into a more serious ulcer or infection. If medical care is delayed further, the tissue can die, leading to the possibility of partial or full amputation.
The Alarming Reality of Diabetic Amputations
According to data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), Australia sees thousands of diabetes-related amputations every year, many of which could have been avoided with early intervention. Foot complications are among the most common reasons people with diabetes are admitted to hospital, and they contribute significantly to healthcare costs and reduced quality of life.
Early detection and management are vital. This is where the expertise of a podiatrist becomes invaluable.
Role of a Podiatrist in Diabetic Foot Care
Podiatrists are allied health professionals specialising in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of foot, ankle and lower limb conditions. In diabetic patients, their role is comprehensive and proactive. It includes:
1. Regular Foot Assessments
Routine check-ups allow podiatrists to evaluate foot health and detect issues early. During a diabetic foot assessment, they examine:
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Skin integrity
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Circulation and pulse strength
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Sensation using monofilament or tuning fork tests
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Foot structure and gait
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Nail and skin conditions
These evaluations help stratify patients into risk categories ranging from low to high, allowing for a tailored prevention and treatment plan.
2. Nail and Skin Care
People with diabetes often have thickened or ingrown toenails, calluses, and dry skin. Podiatrists safely manage these issues, reducing the risk of infections. They use sterile instruments and techniques that prevent skin breakdown, especially in high-risk areas.
3. Pressure Offloading and Orthotic Devices
Podiatrists can design or recommend custom orthotics, specialised footwear, or padding to redistribute pressure away from vulnerable areas. Offloading helps prevent foot ulcers, particularly in individuals who have structural deformities or a history of foot sores.
4. Wound Management
In cases where ulcers have developed, podiatrists provide wound care tailored to the type and depth of the wound. This includes debridement (removal of dead tissue), dressing changes and coordination with other healthcare providers such as GPs, endocrinologists and vascular surgeons.
5. Education and Prevention
One of the most important aspects of diabetic foot care is patient education. A podiatrist offers practical guidance on:
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Daily foot inspections
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Foot hygiene practices
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Recognising early signs of infection
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Choosing appropriate footwear
Education empowers patients to take control of their condition and act quickly if changes occur.
In locations such as Claremont, where access to multidisciplinary care is increasingly prioritised, a podiatrist in Claremont often works in conjunction with local health services to ensure patients receive continuous, integrated care.
The Importance of Early Detection
The earlier a podiatrist detects a problem, the more likely it can be treated without complications. A seemingly minor issue like a blister or crack in the skin can escalate rapidly in someone with poor circulation or nerve damage.
According to Diabetes Australia, people with diabetes are up to 30 times more likely to experience a foot amputation than the general population. Yet, research shows that up to 85 percent of these amputations are preventable.
This statistic underscores the importance of routine podiatric evaluations and highlights the difference timely intervention can make.
Identifying the High-Risk Foot
Podiatrists assess and classify the diabetic foot based on risk factors. The “high-risk foot” typically shows one or more of the following:
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Loss of protective sensation
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Deformity (e.g., hammer toes or Charcot foot)
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History of previous ulcer or amputation
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Peripheral arterial disease
Patients with high-risk feet require more frequent visits and may be referred to specialist foot clinics or multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive care.
Coordinated Diabetic Foot Care Teams
Many hospitals and healthcare facilities in Australia have developed High-Risk Foot Clinics, which bring together podiatrists, endocrinologists, vascular surgeons and diabetes educators. These multidisciplinary teams provide integrated care for individuals with complex foot needs.
Such clinics follow evidence-based guidelines to reduce the likelihood of hospitalisation and amputation. The model has proven effective and is increasingly being adopted in both urban and regional areas.
Practical Steps for Diabetics to Protect Their Feet
While podiatrists play a central role in diabetic foot care, self-management is equally important. People living with diabetes can reduce their risk of complications by incorporating the following into their daily routine:
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Inspect feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness or swelling
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Wash and dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes
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Apply moisturiser to prevent dry, cracked skin (avoid between the toes)
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Trim nails straight across and file edges
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Wear clean, seamless socks and well-fitting shoes
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Avoid walking barefoot, even indoors
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Monitor blood glucose levels to support overall health
These simple steps, combined with regular visits to a podiatrist, form a strong defence against foot complications.
When to Seek Immediate Care
Certain symptoms require prompt medical attention. These include:
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A foot wound that does not heal
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Sudden swelling or redness
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Warmth around a particular area
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Drainage or foul odour from a sore
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Increased pain or difficulty walking
Delaying treatment for any of these signs increases the risk of infection and complications that may lead to hospitalisation or amputation.
Advancements in Diabetic Foot Management
New technologies are enhancing diabetic foot care. From thermographic imaging to smart insoles that detect pressure changes, innovation is improving how podiatrists assess and monitor patients.
Additionally, telehealth services now enable remote consultations, ensuring that patients in rural or remote communities have access to quality foot care advice without travelling long distances.
Research into advanced wound care therapies, including biologic dressings and growth factors, is also contributing to faster healing and improved patient outcomes.
Diabetes-related amputations are a significant public health concern in Australia, but they are largely preventable with early detection, patient education and expert care. Podiatrists are essential in this effort, offering routine assessments, preventative treatments and coordinated care strategies that protect the feet and preserve mobility.
By recognising the signs of foot problems early and engaging in regular podiatric care, individuals with diabetes can significantly reduce their risk of serious complications. For those in areas like Claremont, partnering with an experienced podiatrist Claremont offers access to specialised knowledge and support that can make a meaningful difference in long-term health outcomes.
