Living with diabetes requires careful attention to many aspects of health—but one area that’s often overlooked is the feet. Diabetes can significantly affect foot health, making regular chiropody care a vital part of every diabetic’s healthcare routine.
At Western House Consulting Rooms in Barnsley, we understand how crucial professional diabetic foot care is for preventing serious complications and maintaining mobility.
How Diabetes Affects Foot Health
Diabetes can damage nerves and reduce blood flow, especially in the legs. This combination creates two major risks:
- Peripheral neuropathy – A loss of feeling in the feet caused by nerve damage. People may not notice small cuts, blisters, or infections developing.
- Poor circulation – Reduced blood flow slows the healing process so that small cuts take much longer to heal, increasing the likelihood of sores or ulcers becoming infected.
When left untreated, these issues can lead to foot ulcers, infections, and in severe cases, amputations. That’s why regular foot checks by a chiropodist (also known as a podiatrist) are essential for anyone with diabetes.
The Importance of Chiropody for Diabetes
Professional chiropody plays a crucial role in early detection and prevention of diabetic foot problems. A qualified HCPC registered chiropodist for diabetes can identify risks long before symptoms become serious. Here at Western House, our chiropodist (Dawn Turton) is registered with the HCPC – the professional body that regulates health practitioners – so that the public is protected by ensuring professionals are safe and effective clinicians.
During a routine diabetic foot care appointment at Western House, your chiropodist will:
- Assess circulation and nerve sensation.
- Trim toenails safely to prevent ingrown nails or injuries.
- Remove hard skin and calluses (a thick, hardened layer of skin that forms as a protective response to repeated pressure or friction) that could lead to ulcers.
- Treat minor wounds promptly to avoid infection.
- Provide footwear advice to reduce pressure and friction.
These regular visits not only keep your feet comfortable—they can prevent complications and preserve your independence.
At Home Diabetic Foot Care Tips
Daily care between appointments makes a big difference. Here are some simple steps for maintaining healthy feet at home:
- Inspect your feet daily for redness, blisters, swelling, or cuts.
- Wash and dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Moisturise dry skin, but avoid applying cream between toes.
- Always wear socks and shoes—never walk barefoot.
- Report any changes in colour, temperature, or sensation to your chiropodist at Western House or GP.
By combining these habits with regular professional foot care, you greatly reduce your risk of serious complications.
When to Seek Immediate Help
Contact your Chiropodist, diabetic foot clinic or GP urgently if you notice:
- An open wound or ulcer.
- Redness, swelling, or warmth in the foot.
- Persistent pain or numbness.
- Skin discolouration (pale, blue, or dark patches).
Prompt attention from a chiropodist can make the difference between a minor issue and a major medical emergency.
Protect Your Feet with Expert Care
Diabetes doesn’t have to mean foot problems. With ongoing chiropody and diabetic foot care, you can maintain healthy feet and an active lifestyle.
At Western House our experienced chiropodist provides comprehensive foot health assessments, tailored advice, and gentle care for patients with diabetes.
Your feet carry you through life—let us help you keep them healthy.
Book your diabetic foot check today with Dawn by contacting us on (01226) 730249.
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