Diabetes can have a profound effect on the health of your feet. Raised blood sugar levels over time damage nerves (peripheral neuropathy) and impair blood circulation (peripheral arterial disease). This combination means that diabetic patients may not feel injuries to their feet and may struggle to heal from them, increasing the risk of infection, ulceration, and in severe cases, amputation.
At Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent, we provide specialist diabetic foot assessments and ongoing preventative foot care. Early identification of problems and proactive management significantly reduces the risk of serious complications.
Why Diabetic Foot Care Is Essential
Peripheral neuropathy – Nerve damage reduces sensation, meaning cuts, blisters, and pressure wounds may go unnoticed.
Peripheral vascular disease – Reduced blood flow slows healing and increases infection risk.
Increased infection risk – High blood sugar impairs the immune system's ability to fight bacteria.
Foot deformity – Neuropathy can lead to Charcot foot, muscle weakness, and structural changes.
Ulceration – Undetected pressure wounds or minor injuries can progress rapidly to ulcers.
What Our Diabetic Assessment Includes
Our comprehensive diabetic foot assessment follows national NICE guidelines and includes:
Neurological assessment – Testing sensation using a 10g monofilament and vibration testing to identify neuropathy.
Vascular assessment – Checking pedal pulses and skin temperature to evaluate circulation.
Dermatological assessment – Inspecting skin integrity, callus, corns, and areas of high pressure.
Musculoskeletal assessment – Evaluating foot structure, joint mobility, and deformity risk.
Risk classification – Patients are classified as low, moderate, or high risk to determine the frequency and level of podiatry care required.
Footwear assessment – Ensuring footwear is appropriate and not causing pressure damage.
Diabetic Foot Risk Categories
Low risk – Normal sensation and circulation - annual podiatry review recommended.
Moderate risk – One risk factor present (e.g. neuropathy or vascular disease) - 3–6 monthly reviews.
High risk – Multiple risk factors, previous ulceration or amputation - 1–3 monthly specialist care.
Ongoing Diabetic Foot Treatments
Routine nail care – Safe, professional nail trimming reduces the risk of ingrowing nails and trauma.
Callus management – Regular debridement of high-pressure areas prevents ulceration.
Wound care – Management of any breaks in skin or early ulcers.
Orthotic provision – Pressure-redistributing insoles and specialist footwear recommendations.
Patient education – Guidance on daily foot inspection, footwear, and when to seek urgent care.
Self-Care for Diabetic Patients
Inspect your feet daily – Check for cuts, blisters, swelling, redness, or changes in temperature.
Never walk barefoot – Even indoors, protect your feet from injury at all times.
Moisturise daily – Apply cream to the feet but not between the toes.
Cut nails carefully – Or let a podiatrist do it for you if you have reduced sensation.
Wear well-fitting shoes – Avoid tight, pointed, or high-heeled footwear.
Related Foot Care Treatments at Deal Podiatry
A diabetic foot assessment at Deal Podiatry includes access to a full range of specialist podiatry services to protect your feet.
Book Your Diabetic Foot Assessment at Deal Podiatry
If you have diabetes, regular podiatry reviews are an essential part of managing your health. Contact Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent to book your annual diabetic foot assessment.