As a Podiatrist with experience in diabetes and wound care, including two years working in a hospital setting, our Podiatrist Ibrahim (Abe) Pulos has seen firsthand how essential foot care is in the management of diabetes. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with diabetes for years, taking care of your feet should be a top priority. Abe is here to take you through why regular Podiatry care matters for your diabetes care.
Why Are Diabetic Feet at Risk?
Diabetes can impact the feet in several ways:
- Reduced blood flow (peripheral arterial disease) can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.
- Nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy) can cause loss of sensation, meaning you may not feel pain, cuts, or blisters.
- Changes in foot structure and biomechanics can increase pressure on certain areas, leading to ulcers.
Even a small issue like a blister or ingrown toenail can turn into a serious problem if not detected and treated early.
Common Diabetic Foot Problems Podiatrist Abe Sees in Clinic:
- Corns, calluses, and pressure points
- Non-healing wounds or ulcers
- Cracked heels or fungal infections
- Ingrown or thickened toenails
- Early signs of infection or poor circulation
- Early detection of nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy)
- Podiatrist Abe routinely uses tools like a 10g monofilament, tuning fork (128Hz), and light touch testing to assess sensation and identify changes before symptoms become severe.
- Podiatrist Abe routinely uses tools like a 10g monofilament, tuning fork (128Hz), and light touch testing to assess sensation and identify changes before symptoms become severe.
- Assessment of circulation (Neurovascular Assessment)
- Podiatrist Abe uses a handheld Doppler ultrasound to check the quality of blood flow to the feet, alongside visual and temperature checks. This helps identify issues such as peripheral arterial disease early on.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Feet?
Here are a few tips Podiatrist Abe often shares with his patients:
- Check your feet daily – Look for cuts, redness, swelling, or any changes.
- Avoid walking barefoot, even at home.
- Keep your feet clean and moisturised, but avoid applying cream between the toes.
- Wear well-fitting shoes and socks with no tight seams.
- Have your feet checked regularly by a Podiatrist.
How Abe & all of our Podiatrists Can Help
As a Podiatrist with hospital-based wound care experience and extensive knowledge in diabetes, Abe brings a high level of clinical insight to each consultation. Abe works closely with patients to prevent complications, manage wounds effectively, and create individualised care plans tailored to their needs. All of our Podiatrists at Talaria – Podiatrist of Thornbury are capable of caring for patients with diabetes. Abe takes a particular interest in diabetes foot care & would love to see people with the condition so he can put his expertise to use.
If you have diabetes – even if you feel your feet are completely fine, it’s worth having a routine Podiatry assessment at least once a year. Prevention is always better than cure.
Need a diabetic foot check or concerned about a foot issue?
Book an appointment with our Podiatrist Abe or one of our Podiatrists in Thornbury by either Booking Online or Calling 9480 4935 and let’s keep your diabetes feet healthy and strong for the long term.