Diabetes Assessment
Protecting Your Feet, Preserving Your Health
At Leading Edge Podiatry (formerly Complete Podiatry Blackwood), we specialise in helping people with diabetes keep their feet healthy and strong. Diabetes can have a significant impact on the feet and legs, so regular assessments and early intervention are essential.
Why Are Diabetics More at Risk of Foot Problems?
People living with diabetes are more likely to develop complications in the feet due to two major issues:
- Nerve Damage (Peripheral Neuropathy)
Excess blood sugar can damage the nerves in your feet and legs. Damaged nerves may not function properly, which can lead to:
- Reduced or total loss of sensation in your feet
- Hot, tingling, or burning pain
- Not noticing injuries or pressure points
This can make you unaware of cuts, blisters, or other injuries—putting you at risk of infection or ulceration.
- Poor Circulation (Peripheral Arterial Disease)
Diabetes can also narrow and damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to your feet. Smoking can worsen this. Poor circulation can cause:
- Slow wound healing
- Increased risk of infection
- Cold, pale feet or cramping pain
- Delayed recovery from even minor injuries
What Can Happen If Diabetes Isn’t Managed Well?
If diabetes-related changes in the feet go unnoticed or untreated, a variety of complications can occur:
- Dry, Cracked Skin
Commonly around the heels, which can lead to open wounds or infections.
- Changes in Foot Shape
Nerve damage affects muscle control, which can cause foot deformities like claw toes or high arches.
- Loss of Sensation
Without the ability to feel pain or pressure, you may not notice a cut, blister, or foreign object in your shoe.
“We’ve seen patients walking on glass shards or drawing pins for days without realising it.”
That’s how critical sensation is to foot health.
- Infections
Diabetes increases the risk of bacterial and fungal infections (e.g., tinea, fungal nails). Prompt treatment is key.
- Foot Ulcers
An ulcer is a wound that fails to heal. They can be deep, prone to infection, and sometimes completely painless.
- Amputations
Severe infections or non-healing ulcers may require partial foot or toe amputation. The best way to prevent this is early detection and regular foot checks.
6 Steps to Protect Your Feet with Diabetes
Managing your foot health starts with daily care and regular reviews:
- Control Your Blood Sugar
Maintaining stable blood glucose levels is the best way to protect your nerves and blood vessels.
- Check Your Feet Every Day
Look for cuts, colour changes, swelling, or unusual sensations. Use a mirror or ask someone for help if needed.
- Care for Your Skin
Wash and dry your feet daily, apply moisturiser to dry areas (not between toes), and avoid walking barefoot.
- Look After Your Toenails
Cut them straight across, not too short, or have them managed professionally if difficult to do safely.
- Wear the Right Footwear
Your shoes should be supportive, well-fitted, and appropriate for your activity. Avoid tight or open-toed shoes.
- Have Regular Podiatry Assessments
Your feet should be reviewed by a podiatrist at least every 6 to 12 months—or more often if you’re at high risk.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Leading Edge Podiatry, we provide comprehensive diabetic foot assessments including:
- Doppler ultrasound to assess circulation
- Sensory testing for nerve function
- Skin and nail condition reviews
- Education and preventive care planning
Book Online Now
Or call us on 08 7120 6063 to speak with our experienced podiatry team
We look forward to helping you move better, feel better, and live pain-free at Leading Edge Podiatry (formerly Complete Podiatry Blackwood)!
FAQ's
You don't usually need a referral from a doctor to see a podiatrist. However, DVA/NDIS, Workcover& Medicare Chronic Disease Programme patients will need documentation before their initial appointment.
NDIS patients who are on a managed plan we will need to know your Plan Manager's contact details and approval for assessment.
Workcover patients we will require case manager details and approval details for assessment.
Medicare Chronic Disease Patients (e.g. Diabetes, Heart Disease), we will require an EPC referral form.
DVA patients will need a DVA patient referral. D904 form from your GP.
Please call us on 08 7120 6063 for further information.
Health Insurance: Podiatry comes under “Extras cover”. Private health insurance can vary from one health fund to the next. Before booking your appointment it’s always good to check your health fund policy to determine how much cover you will receive from your private health insurer. Leading Edge Podiatry is a Bupa Members First provider.
Medicare: If you have a chronic medical condition, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate to cover some of podiatry services under a Chronic disease management plan. Common chronic conditions include: Diabetes, High Cholesterol, High Blood pressure & Heart Disease. Please note: Medicare appointments are NOT bulk billed.
NDIS: Patients that are on a managed plan we will need your NDIS number and details of your case manager and account details. For plan managed we prepare a Service Agreement and can invoice the plan manager.
DVA: You may be able to receive podiatry services if you have a Veteran Gold or are approved for specified foot conditions as DVA White Card.
We understand that life is unpredictable and you may not always be able to make your scheduled appointment. If you are unable to make an appointment please contact our reception at least 24 hours prior to cancel or arrange for another time. Please call us on 7120 6063 or email: admin@leadingedgepodiatry.com.au
Missed appointments and appointments cancelled without 24 hours notice may be charged a consultation fee.
Your private health fund card (if applicable). Any relevant medical records, test results, x-rays, MRI scans, or ultrasounds. A list of your current medications (if you have not filled in the new patient form before arrival). Any previous orthotics or insoles and a couple of pairs of shoes if you are suffering from foot pain.
Podiatrists are experts in foot and ankle health. They are healthcare professionals who can diagnose and treat problems relating to your feet and lower limbs. They can also work with you to relieve pain, correct deformities, sporting injuries, help prevent foot conditions from occurring, as well as keep you active and mobile throughout your life.
Podiatrists play a key role in the early detection and treatment of foot problems in people with diabetes. Neuropathy (nerve damage), arthropathy (joint damage), vasculopathy (blood vessel damage), and other complications, most of which can be avoided or delayed with annual foot exams and treatment.
Yes, our podiatrist Jason Kuang is endorsed for schedule medicines. He can prescribe medicines for common foot ailments e.g.: antibiotics, antifungal, gout medications.
We do treat children of all ages, if your child is experiencing pain in their ankles or feet, it's a sign that you need to see a podiatrist. Pain isn't a normal sign of growth and it should be professionally assessed, diagnosed, and treated where necessary. Our podiatrists are very experienced in helping young children with feet issues.
At Leading Edge Podiatry, we have a limited footwear selection, including brands like Archies thongs and slides, Revere sandals.
Case Studies
