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Is it worth seeing a Chiropodist?

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Carina1962

Well-Known Member
Relationship to Diabetes
Type 2
Do people pay to see a Chiropodist on a regular basis to keep check on their feet? I think they charge something like ?25 a visit but just wondering if it's worth having a professional check on feet every 6 months or so? I do get an annual check from the DN but nothing else inbetween, have to just check on my own judgement - what do others do?
 
How thorough are the checks done by your nurse? Do they check pulses and sensitivity? I think the type of check and who dies it varies according to postcode (that old lottery again :(). I see a podiatrist once a year, but also check my own feet daily for any signs of infection or wound. Some people may only get a cursory examination at their GPs (without the full gamut of sensitivity and pulse checks) and have to pay to be seen by a podiatrist. I know that when I was frst diagnosed 5 years ago everything was free, including any preventative treatments required (like ingrowing toenails or toenail clipping), but last year I was tld these would now be privately-paid for.

Certainly, if you have any concerns your should go straight to your doctor or nurse, and if not happy with their response then go private. I'm sure we all remember Simon and the problems he had, despite seeking help from his GP very soon after finding an infection. His experience and that of the man in the news article you posted show just how quickly things can develop.
 
Yes I do get the tuning fork on the feet to check for neuropathy etc but I don't recall a thorough examination of the feet by the nurse so maybe in the new year I may just 'treat' myself to a chiropodist visit. In the meantime I do check my feet daily and when I shower after going to the gym.
 
Whilst I have my feet checked by my practice nurse annually, sensitivity & pulse, I do manage to cut my toe nails and I check my feet regularly, also underneath the toes and sole with a mirror.

I would have no hesitation in seeing a registered podiatrist privately if I thought I had a problem, rather than wait to see an NHS podiatrist.
 
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