Love your feet

People living with diabetes are recommended to have a foot check at least once a year. If you need extra advice or care, it may be more often, your podiatry and foot-care plan will be guided by your individual needs.

Most podiatry care is delivered in local health centres across the city. Care can be arranged for the very frail and housebound, if needed.

If you do develop a complex foot problem, you may be referred to the hospital team.

The podiatry teams across the community and hospital aim to work together to keep your feet safe, reducing your risk of ulceration or amputation with advice and a treatment plan suitable for you.

People living with diabetes fear leg amputation more than any other complication of diabetes, but with the right steps, most of the time, this can be avoided.

If you look after your feet then they will look after you. Take the time now to love your feet and they will give you a lifetime of happiness.

Five toe tips

1. Look after yourself, your general health and diabetes, to help reduce risk of developing foot problems.

2. Get your Diabetes foot check’ at least once a year.

3. Just take a minute or two to check your feet each day: it’s easiest when putting shoes and socks on or off.

4. Never ignore a foot problem if you live with diabetes, ask for help.

5. Wear shoes suitable for your foot shape and the activity as much as possible.