Diabetic Foot Checks in Sheffield: What They Are and Why They Matter

Diabetes can affect the feet in two ways that reinforce each other: reduced sensation, so an injury goes unnoticed, and reduced circulation, so it heals slowly. A regular foot check is the simplest way to catch a small problem while it is still small.

What a check includes

This service is a check rather than a treatment. Deborah is licensed to carry out diabetic foot checks and is qualified by the professional register for foot health care. A home visit check covers:

• A sensation check across the foot to look for loss of protective feeling
• A pulse and circulation assessment at the foot and ankle
• A full skin and nail inspection, including between the toes and around the heels
• A look at pressure points, foot shape changes and any callus building up
• Clear, written-down advice on footwear and daily checks
• A referral pointer to your GP or diabetes team if anything needs medical attention

Signs to act on straight away

Contact your GP or diabetes team the same day if you notice any of the following. These are not wait-and-see symptoms.

• A break in the skin, blister or ulcer that is not healing
• Redness, swelling, heat or an unusual smell
• A sudden change in foot colour or shape
• New numbness, tingling or burning pain

Between appointments

Check your feet daily, using a mirror or a family member for the soles. Keep skin moisturised but dry between the toes, never walk barefoot outdoors, and shake out your shoes before putting them on. Cut nails straight across, and if that is difficult to do safely, leave it to a practitioner.

Arrange a check in S8

A diabetic foot health check at home is £30 and takes around 45 minutes. Call or text Deborah on 07828 50 24 70 to book anywhere in the Sheffield S8 area.