Diabetes and your feet
DIABETES AND YOUR FEET
Expert Care at Buderim Foot and Ankle
Diabetes can have a serious impact on your feet — but with early detection, regular podiatry care, and proper education, complications can be prevented. At Buderim Foot and Ankle, we provide expert, evidence-based diebetes foot care and screening to help protect your long-term health.
Why Foot Care Is Vital If You Have Diabetes
High blood glucose levels over time can lead to:
- Nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy), causing numbness, tingling, or pain
- Poor circulation, which slows healing and increases the risk of infection
- Increased risk of ulcers, wounds, and infection that can lead to amputation if not properly treated
According to Diabetes Australia, diabetes is the leading cause of lower limb amputation in Australia, yet 85% of amputations are preventable with early intervention and appropriate care.
That’s why podiatry is an essential part of diabetes management.
Our Diabetes Foot Services Include:
- Comprehensive diabetes foot screenings
- Nerve and circulation testing (including Doppler ultrasound)
- Assessment of skin integrity, nail health, and foot structure
- Education and prevention advice based on your risk level
- Creation of a personalised treatment and monitoring plan
- Footwear assessment and advice
At your initial consultation, we’ll establish a baseline measure of your foot health so we can detect even small changes during your 6-monthly or annual reviews.
MEET RHIANNA –
Diabetes Foot Care Specialist
Podiatrist Rhianna has a special interest in diabetes foot care and holds additional qualifications in diabetes education. She is committed to staying up to date with the latest clinical guidelines and is passionate about empowering patients with the knowledge and tools to prevent complications.
Rhianna takes the time to:
- Explain how diabetes affects your feet
- Identify your level of risk
- Help you understand how small daily habits can prevent major problems
- Provide evidence-based advice aligned with Diabetes Australia and the Australian Podiatry Association
Early Detection Saves Feet
We follow best-practice guidelines to detect early warning signs and reduce your risk of:
- Ulcers
- Infections
- Loss of sensation (neuropathy)
- Charcot foot
- Amputation
Routine diabetes foot checks are one of the most effective ways to stay ahead of problems. Even if your feet feel fine, subtle changes can occur without noticeable symptoms.
Who Should Have Regular Diabetes Foot Checks?
According to Diabetes Australia and the Australian Podiatry Association, if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you should have your feet checked:
- At least once per year, or
- Every 3 to 6 months if you’re at moderate to high risk of complications
Our team will determine the ideal review frequency based on your individual risk category.
Medicare Rebates Available
If you have a Chronic Disease Management Plan from your GP, Medicare provides a rebate of $61.80 per eligible visit under the EPC program. How this works is you pay the complete fee upfront and tap your card for a rebate.
If you have private health insurance we have Tyro to swipe you health fund card on the day and you simply pay the gap. All payments are processed on site at reception.
We also accept referrals from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).
Take Control of your foot health today.
Call our friendly team on (07) 5338 7387 or Book Online now.
Let us help you stay a step ahead of diabetes foot complications.