Diabetic foot assessment

Why it’s important to take care of your feet and attend your annual foot check

If you have diabetes you’re much more likely to develop problems with your feet – problems that could end up as amputations.

Every week 135,000 people have an amputation of a toe, foot or leg due to diabetes. But in most cases, serious foot problems and amputations can be prevented with a little self care and an annual foot check. Checking your feet yourself every day  and attending your annual, free, 15 minute NHS foot check could prevent you from losing a toe or foot.

What happens at your annual foot check

First, you’ll need to take off any footwear, including socks and tights, then your feet will be examined by one of our friendly podiatrists using tools like those shown in the image.

Numbness or changes in sensation – known as neuropathy – will be tested. They’ll also check your shoes to make sure they’re not causing any problems.

At the appointment, you’ll also be asked lots of questions about your feet and how you manage your diabetes. These could include:

• Have you had any problems or noticed any changes like cuts, blisters, broken skin or corns?
• Have you ever had any foot problems or wounds?
• Have you had any pain or discomfort?
• How often do you check your feet?
• Do you have any cramp-like pains when walking?
• How well are you managing your diabetes?

After your assessment

Your healthcare team will tell you your results and let you know how much you’re at risk of a foot problem. If you notice any changes – in colour, swelling or loss of feeling – speak with the podiatry team straight away, just call 01274 221165 between 9.00am-4.00pm.

Low risk
Keep checking your feet daily.

Moderate risk
If your podiatrist has identified one sign of a foot problem, such as a loss of sensation or a change in foot shape, but doesn’t think you need more regular NHS checks, continue to carry out your daily checks and you will be invited for your annual NHS foot check each year.

If you need more monitoring however, the podiatrist will discuss a plan with you at your annual foot check.  Again, if you notice any changes in your feet, like changes in colour, swelling or loss of feeling, you should speak with your podiatry team straight away using the number above.

High risk
If you have more than one sign of a foot problem, or have a previous ulcer or amputation,  your podiatrist will discuss a plan with you to help you take care of your feet. This plan will be reviewed at least once a year and you might be referred to other specialists. This is to help stop you from getting a foot ulcer that could lead to an amputation.

Ulcerated
Highly serious foot complications, such as a spreading infection or ulcer, mean you should already be having regular podiatry treatment.

In remission
If you have had a foot ulcer, amputation or other foot problem in the past, your podiatrist will discuss a plan with you which will be reviewed at least once a year. You might be referred to other specialists to help prevent any more complications with your feet.