If you are living with diabetes, arthritis, or any long-term medical condition, your feet often feel the impact first. It might start with a bit of numbness, the skin may become dry, or a small wound may take longer to heal than it should. 

Feet are intricate structures; the care you give to your feet can make all the difference in how they feel every day. 

Why is foot care so important if I have a medical condition?

Chronic conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and circulatory problems affect more than just your internal systems. They can change how your feet feel, how they heal, and how vulnerable they become to injury or infection. 

Medical conditions can affect your feet in the following ways:

• Reduced sensation, which makes it harder to feel pain, heat, or injury
• Slower healing, especially if circulation is poor
• Joint stiffness or deformity due to arthritis
• Muscle weakness that alters the way you walk
• Skin that cracks or becomes fragile, increasing the risk of infection

What is included in diabetes and systemic diseases-related foot care?

At our podiatry practice, we provide screening, ongoing monitoring, and treatment to help you stay mobile and prevent complications. 

Key services include:

• Diabetic Foot Screenings: Regular checks for circulation, nerve function, skin integrity, and early signs of pressure or injury
• Treatment of Diabetes-Related Foot Problems: Includes management of neuropathy, dry or cracked skin,fungal infections, foot pain related to diabetes and associated structural foot deformities
• Treatment of Arthritis-Related Foot Problems: Painful joints, deformities, and pressure points are assessed and managed to improve comfort and reduce strain

Every condition brings its own set of challenges. Having ongoing foot care helps to keep those challenges manageable.

When should I book a screening or foot check?

Even if your feet feel fine, consistent check-ups are important. Some problems do not cause pain at first. Others may develop gradually. By the time you notice them, they may already be advanced. 

You should consider booking an appointment if you:

• Have diabetes or arthritis and have not had a foot check in the past 6-12 months
• Notice numbness, tingling, or burning in your feet
• Have dry skin, cracks or itchy skin
• See redness, swelling, or changes in skin colour 
• Notice your foot shape or gait has changed
• Have had recent surgery involving the lower limbs

A quick appointment today may save you from issues tomorrow.

How can I look after my feet between appointments?

Here are some easy steps you can take at home to protect your feet if you are managing a systemic condition:

• Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, or redness
• Keep the skin moisturised, especially on heels and soles
• Cut nails straight across and file the edges
• Wear shoes that fit well and support the foot structure
• Avoid walking barefoot, even at home
• Report any changes, pain, or injuries as soon as they appear

Your health matters, and so do your feet

Chronic health conditions do not need to stop you from staying active and independent. Regular foot care is one of the easiest ways to maintain comfort and mobility, especially as your body changes. 

Book your foot screening today and take a step toward better health.