Helen works as part of a multidisciplinary team, consisting of Vascular Surgeons and Wound Care Sisters, and she regularly consults with Orthopaedic Surgeons, as well as any other medical specialists involved in the patient’s care. This ensures that a comprehensive treatment programme is developed which will give you the best possible outcome.
Diabetic and immune compromised patients are particularly at risk of developing wounds that can prove difficult to heal. A lack of offloading, nerve damage and reduced blood flow results in a patient’s ability to heal being compromised.
When visiting Helen as a diabetic, you will undergo a Diabetic Assessment, which must be performed annually to better understand how diabetes affects your feet and to safe-guard against recurring wounds. Once the Diabetic Assessment has concluded, Helen will treat any dermatological conditions or wounds that may be present.
We've helped heal thousands of patients’ feet through this holistic, multidisciplinary approach. Our unique methodology provides a road-map for effective and lasting treatment, whilst critically informing you of the biggest risks your feet face.
The feet of those with diabetes are at risk due to the poor healing of wounds and reduced sensitivity to pain. This may lead to infections, injuries and even amputation, if the feet are not properly treated.Our guide to foot care for diabetes provides valuable advice on the best approach to foot care for diabetics, including:
Helen will assess and take note of your BMI, activity levels, any historic or current lower-limb conditions as well as any medication you take on a regular basis as a diabetic
The lower-limb is assessed to better understand how diabetes may have changed your foot function. Helen will test and take note of your range of motion as well as any existing foot deformities.
Helen will assess your blood-flow on a hand-held Arterial Doppler to test the health of your blood-flow, including capillary refill time and skin temperature.
The health of your nerves in your foot and your reflexes is evaluated using a Neurotheseometer, a Monofilament, Tuning Fork and Tiptherm.
The results from the above listed assessments and tests are compiled in a comprehensive report which is sent on to your Specialist Physician as well as any other medical professionals that you see on a regular basis
Finally, Helen will discuss the way forward with you to maximise your foot health and reduce the risk of obtaining lower-limb wounds as a diabetic