Treatment for Diabetic Foot Ulcers - what do I need?

Dr Prashant Vas, Consultant Endocrinologist and Diabetologist explains why some people with Diabetes develop foot problems. He explains that this can occur as a result of nerve and circulation problems affecting the foot. He explains that part of the process can involve the foot becoming misshapen.

Richard shares problems he's experienced with Diabetic foot problems. He talks about numbness and a 'dropped foot' also. Richard also shares his experiences of having a Diabetic Foot ulcer. He also talks about Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) causing lack of blood supply to his feet and that he had had surgery to improve this problem.

Dr Prashant Vas, Consultant Endocrinologist and Diabetologist talks about how difficult it is to heal ulcers in the feet of people with Diabetes. He explains that healing is easier the quicker the treatment is given. In the UK, he says, that 50% of Diabetic foot ulcers heal within 12 weeks with treatment.

Dr Mushtaqur Rahman, Consultant Endocrinologist and Diabetologist talks about how to do a Foot Check for someone with Diabetes. He talks about looking for various issues then feeling for your pulses around the ankle. He mention pressing the tips of the toes to assess the blood circulation there. Dr Rahman then talks about tests for nerve damage including feeling touch as well as other specialised tests for nerve function.

Mr Joseph Shalhoub, Consultant Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon explains what healthcare professionals mean when they use the term 'Rest Pain' with Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD or narrowing of the arteries). He explains it happens due an inadequate supply of blood to the feet. He goes on to explain that people with Diabetes may not experience this as the nerves have been damaged.

In this short video, Mr Shalhoub talks about how often foot checks should be done for people with diabetes and peripheral vascular disease.