Book a diabetic foot assessment ↓
If you have diabetes, NICE guidelines recommend a specific foot assessment at least once a year. We check the circulation and feeling in your feet, look at their shape, skin and nails, tell you your level of risk and give you clear advice on looking after them.
Why an annual check matters
Diabetes can cause significant problems in the feet, and many of them can be prevented with the right care and advice. The assessment looks at your circulation, sensation and foot care and puts you in a risk category, so you know how closely your feet need watching.
Reduced feeling
If your feet are numb, you may be slow to notice a shoe rubbing or a small injury.
Reduced circulation
If blood flow is reduced, the skin may be thinner and healing can take longer.
Changes in eyesight
Diabetes can affect the small blood vessels in the eye, which can make it harder to check your own feet.
What the assessment involves
- Circulation. We use a handheld Doppler to listen to the blood flow in the arteries of your feet. This can be compared with the circulation in your arm to detect any reduced blood flow. This measurement is called the ABPI (ankle-brachial pressure index).
- Sensation. We check whether you can feel sharp and light touch, including with a monofilament.
- Feet, skin and nails. We look at the shape of your feet and bones, your skin and your nails, and how you are currently caring for them.
- Your risk and your plan. We explain your risk category and give you advice, and a treatment plan if one is needed.
This appointment is also our vascular and neurological foot assessment, so it is suitable if you are concerned about the circulation or feeling in your feet for another reason.
Laser treatment for neuropathy, wounds and ulcers
If the assessment finds a problem, there may be more we can do than advice alone. We offer two laser treatments for diabetic feet.
MiS laser for peripheral neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage, often showing as numbness, tingling or burning in the feet. MiS laser is used to treat it. A course is 6 treatments for the full effect.
MLS laser for wounds and ulcers
MLS laser is used on wounds and ulcers to help them heal. It sits alongside normal wound care and protective footwear advice.
What to expect
Nerves can respond with a rebound or healing reaction, and the area can feel sore for about 2 days after a treatment. Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help, and the area usually feels better afterwards. We ask how you got on at your next appointment and may lower the energy, depending on your situation.
Looking after your feet every day
- Check your feet every day for cuts, bruises or red areas where shoes are rubbing.
- Avoid walking barefoot.
- If you are able to, cut and file your nails so they are smooth.
- Make sure your shoes are soft and fit well.
- Have regular podiatry or nail care as needed, rather than waiting for your feet to hurt.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I have a diabetic foot assessment?
NICE guidelines recommend a specific foot assessment at least once a year for people with diabetes.
How long does it take and how much does it cost?
The assessment is a 30-minute appointment and costs £80. See our prices page for all our fees.
What tests are involved?
We listen to the circulation in your feet with a handheld Doppler, test sharp and light-touch sensation (including with a monofilament), and look at the shape of your feet, your skin and your nails.
I don’t have diabetes but I’m worried about circulation or numbness. Can I book?
Yes. This appointment is also our vascular and neurological foot assessment, so you can book it if you are concerned about the circulation or feeling in your feet.
Ready to book?
Questions first? Call our practice manager on 01923 856 235.