Almost an amputation per hour takes place in people with diabetes in the UK.

This occurs because the foot circulation is worse in people with diabetes who have poor sugar control.

Unfortunately these show no signs of reducing with rates continuing to rise.

The sad fact is that 80% of these amputations are felt to be preventable if simple steps are taken such as good sugar control and regular foot checks.

Another common issue from poorly controlled diabetes is foot ulcers which is where the skin breaks down and leaves the underlying flesh exposed.

At times these can heal but some can take years to heal.

They require regular dressings and close care to heal.

The good news for Asians is that they have less than half the risk of getting amputations, and ulcer risk is a fifth, compared to their Caucasian counterparts.

The issue which seems to afflict Asians more is nerve problems from diabetes.

Patients suffer from pain or a burning sensation in their feet caused by a specific kind of nerve damage which occurs in diabetes.

This can affect their quality of life and make simple tasks such as wearing shoes or sleeping a painful and unpleasant experience. The treatment for the pain are strong painkillers.

To prevent these issues, every patient has an annual foot check usually at their GP practice.

This involves checking the blood circulation in the feet as well as the nerve function too. At the same time advice is also given on self checks.

There is a dedicated diabetes foot team and a podiatry service which specialise in this too.

It helps to have good sugar control and attend regular foot checks so that these issues can be reduced.

This approach can hopefully prevent major lifelong issues and pains from developing.