Diabetic Foot Care and Ageing Feet
Diabetes and the changes that come with age can affect the skin, nails, circulation and feeling in your feet. At Sports and Structural Podiatry in Maroochydore, regular foot checks and care help pick up problems early and keep you on your feet.
Why it matters
Why feet need extra care with diabetes
Over time, diabetes can affect the nerves and blood flow in the feet. That means a small blister or cut can go unnoticed and be slow to heal.
- Reduced feeling (neuropathy), so injuries may not be felt
- Reduced circulation, which can slow healing
- Dry skin that cracks, especially around the heels
- Thickened or hard-to-cut toenails
- Changes in foot shape that create pressure points
Diabetic foot assessment
What happens at a diabetic foot assessment
Your podiatrist checks your feet for early signs of problems, so they can be managed before they become serious.
01
Health review
We go through your diabetes, other health conditions, medications and any foot problems you have noticed.
02
Skin and nails
We check the skin and nails for areas of pressure, hard skin, cracks, infection or nail problems.
03
Circulation and feeling
We check the blood flow in your feet and test feeling with simple, painless tests.
04
Your risk and plan
We explain your foot risk, how often to have your feet checked, and how to look after your feet at home. We can share the results with your GP.
Ageing feet
Foot care for older adults
As we get older, skin becomes thinner and drier, nails often thicken, and feet can change shape. Regular care helps keep you comfortable and active.
Nail care
Care for thick, curved or hard-to-reach toenails, including fungal nails.
Corns and callus
Comfortable removal of hard skin, and advice on the pressure that causes it.
Ingrown toenails
Gentle treatment for nails that dig into the skin.
Footwear advice
Help choosing shoes that fit well, support your feet and reduce the risk of slips and trips.
Dry and cracked heels
Treatment and skin care advice for dry, cracked skin. Read our article on cracked heels.
Custom orthotics
Made from a 3D scan of your feet and an individual prescription, where they are appropriate for you.
Your podiatrist will talk you through the options, expected benefits and any risks before you decide.
Who you will see
Our podiatrists
Holly has a special interest in diabetic foot assessments and nail and skin care. All of our podiatrists can help with this, so book with whoever suits your schedule.
Holly Wilcox
Senior Podiatrist
B.Hlth.Sc (Pod). Special interest in nail and skin care, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot assessments, orthotic therapy and footwear advice.
Hannah Oong
Senior Podiatrist
B.PodMed. Particular interest in treating ingrown toenails and in dry needling.
Alana Underwood
Principal Podiatrist
B.Hlth.Sc (Pod), M.SportsMed (Hons). Special interest in sports podiatry and biomechanics.
When to book
If you have diabetes, have your feet checked regularly, even if they feel fine.
If you notice a cut, blister, colour change, swelling or a wound that is not healing, contact us or your GP the same day. If the area is hot, red and spreading, or you feel unwell, seek urgent medical care.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
How often should I have a diabetic foot check?
Most people with diabetes should have their feet checked at least once a year, and more often if their feet are at higher risk. Your podiatrist will tell you how often is right for you.
Can you cut my toenails?
Yes. Nail care is a routine part of many appointments, especially when nails are thick, curved or hard to reach.
What should I bring?
A list of your medications, your most recent blood sugar results if you have them, and the shoes you wear most often.
Can I use a Medicare care plan?
If your GP decides you are eligible for a Medicare care plan for a chronic condition, you may receive a Medicare rebate for some podiatry visits. Ask your GP whether this applies to you, and bring the referral to your appointment.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly with us. If your GP has referred you, please bring the referral to your appointment.
Can I claim on my health fund?
If your private health insurance includes extras cover for podiatry, you may be able to claim part of the cost. Check with your fund for your level of cover.
Book an assessment
Shop 202, Building 2, Ground Floor, 2 Emporio Place, Maroochydore QLD 4558
Book an AppointmentCall (07) 5479 1211