Diabetes and Arthritis

Exeter Clinic 110
conditions

Diabetes and Arthritis

Podiatrists play a vital role in managing foot health for individuals with diabetes or arthritis, two conditions that can lead to serious complications if not properly addressed. Both conditions affect the feet in different ways, but podiatrists are specially trained to assess, treat, and prevent foot-related issues associated with each. For individuals with diabetes, the risk of foot problems can be heightened due to poor circulation, nerve damage (neuropathy), and weakened immune function. These factors can lead to conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, foot ulcers, infections, and even amputations if left untreated. At The Exeter Clinic we can help you manage these risks with regular, scheduled checks, provide tailored guidance on proper footwear and foot hygiene.
Exeter Clinic 151

We also provide musculoskeletal and gait assessments using state of the art equipment combined with years of experience and technical know-how to determine the optimum prescriptions for custom orthoses to help reduce pressure at critical points and improve comfort. Treatment may involve debridement of corns, surface callus and callus from ulcers, prescribing antibiotics for infections, and offering advice on blood sugar management to support overall foot health.

For individuals with arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, foot pain and deformities like bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet are common. These conditions can cause difficulty walking, deformities, and joint stiffness. Our podiatrists can offer treatments to alleviate pain and improve mobility, including recommendations regarding footwear, custom-made orthoses, or physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the joints. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation in affected joints, or surgical interventions may be considered for more severe cases.

Our approach is to help people with diabetes and arthritis to manage their conditions more effectively with preventive care, education around treatment options, and proper foot care to reduce complications and improve quality of life. Regular check-ups are essential for early detection and intervention. Call to arrange a consultation on (01392) 217333 or book online.