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Diabetes Doesn’t Just Affect Blood Sugar, It Affects Your Feet Too

November is Diabetes Action Month, a time to raise awareness, support those living with diabetes, and encourage early detection.

This year’s national theme, “Young People Can Get Diabetes”, highlights a message that matters: diabetes doesn’t only affect older adults. Increasing numbers of children, teens, and young adults in Aotearoa are being diagnosed with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

The earlier diabetes is recognised, the better the chances of managing it well, and living a full, healthy, active life. But what many don’t realise is that diabetes affects far more than blood sugar. It can change the way your body heals, feels, and moves, especially in your feet.

Why Foot Health Matters at Every Age

Your feet are often the first to show signs that something isn’t right. High or unstable blood-sugar levels can damage both nerves and circulation over time, a combination that can make feet more vulnerable to injury and slow to heal.

That’s why foot care is such an important part of diabetes management for everyone, not just older adults.

Even children and teenagers with diabetes can develop:

  • Reduced sensation (neuropathy), numbness, tingling, or loss of feeling.
  • Poor circulation, leading to cold feet or slow-healing skin.
  • Changes in skin or nail health, including dryness, cracks, or infections.

When you can’t feel small cuts, blisters, or pressure spots, it’s easy for minor problems to turn into something more serious. Regular podiatry checks help identify changes early, before they impact comfort, mobility, or independence.

Norwest Podiatry Scope of Practice
Norwest Podiatry Scope of Practice

Supporting Diabetes Action Month at Norwest Podiatry

Throughout November, Norwest Podiatry is proud to support Diabetes Action Month and World Diabetes Day (14 November) through education, collaboration, and community care.

Here’s how we’re contributing:

  • Partnering with local medical centres to provide foot screening clinics for people living with diabetes.
  • Delivering educational sessions and resources in our local community.
  • Encouraging everyone, from tamariki to kaumātua, to book their annual podiatry foot check. This will help prevent complications and help you walk with confidence.

Every Step Counts

As part of Diabetes NZ’s nationwide campaign, the ‘One Million Minutes’ challenge encourages Kiwis to get moving, one minute at a time. Movement supports not only blood-sugar control but also better circulation and stronger feet.

You don’t have to join the challenge officially to make a difference, simply walking your dog, gardening, or dancing in the kitchen all count. Every step you take helps keep your body, mind, and feet healthy.

When to Book a Foot Check

If you live with diabetes, or care for someone who does, a yearly foot check is essential.
Book in sooner if you notice:

  • Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in your feet
  • Changes in skin colour, texture, or temperature
  • Cracked heels, wounds, or sores that heal slowly
  • Thickened nails or hard skin (calluses) that cause pressure

A diabetic foot assessment at Norwest Podiatry takes around 45 minutes. Our experienced Podiatrists will check your pulses, nerve sensation, overall foot health, and deal with any associated foot problems. We will also help you understand how to care for your feet between visits.

Book Your Annual Foot Check Today

If it’s been more than 12 months since your last diabetic foot assessment, or if you’re newly diagnosed, now’s the time to book.

Early, regular podiatry care can prevent complications and keep you active for years to come, with our goal at Norwest Podiatry in helping everyone ‘walk with confidence’.

Check out our new Diabetic page on our website for more information: https://norwestpodiatry.co.nz/services/diabetes/

Norwest Podiatryclinic: 338 Main Road, Huapai
Book your appointment today: 09 412 7740 or book online at https://norwestpodiatry.co.nz/make-a-booking/

Healthy feet mean freedom to move, no matter your age.

Norwest Podiatry Scope of Practice

Next Up on the Diabetes Blog Series

Later this month, we’ll share:

  • World Diabetes Day (14 Nov):5 Foot Care Habits That Could Save Your Mobility
  • End-of-Month Wrap-Up (26 Nov):Why Regular Diabetic Foot Checks Are Yearly Essentials

Stay tuned, and take a minute today to check your feet.

Proudly providing professional podiatry services in Auckland, including West Auckland, West Harbour, Whenuapai, Riverhead, Westgate, Massey, Henderson, Swanson, Te Atatu, Ranui, Huapai, Kumeu, Hobsonville , Waimauku, Muriwai, and Helensville.

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