Diabetes

Diabetes occurs because the body can’t use glucose properly, either owing to a lack of the hormone insulin or because the insulin doesn’t work effectively.

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What we treat

The full name ‘diabetes Mellitus derives from the Greek word ‘diabetes’ meaning siphon – to pass through – and ‘Mellitus’ – the Latin for honeyed or sweet. Orthotic Consultation for treating or preventing associated foot conditions caused by diabetes includes measuring and fitting specialist footwear and insoles.

Types

  • Type 1 Diabetes

    Diabetes mellitus, known as Type 1, used to be insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.

    In type 1, the body cannot produce any insulin and usually starts in childhood or young adulthood and is treated with diet control and insulin injections.

  • Type 2 Diabetes

    More than three-quarters of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes mellitus, known as non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or maturity-onset diabetes mellitus.

    In type 2, insufficient insulin is produced, or the insulin made by the body doesn’t work correctly; it tends to affect people as they get older and usually appears after age 40. This is treated with diet and medication and may lead to the use of insulin injection if it progresses or is poorly controlled.

Questions

Why is it important to treat Diabetes?

The long-lasting symptoms and effects of poorly controlled diabetes can affect the eye sight, the peripheral sensory nerves in your hands and feet, as well as affecting the circulation and skin condition of the lower limbs. If untreated or prevented, it is possible to suffer skin breakdown due to increased pressure on the feet, causing to ulceration and infection which require long term care.

Why does Diabetes Occur?

The body converts glucose from food into energy. Once digested, glucose is present in sweet and starchy foods such as cakes, chocolate, potatoes, pasta or bread. The liver is also able to manufacture glucose.

Under normal circumstances, the hormone insulin, made by the pancreas, carefully regulates how much glucose is in the blood. Insulin stimulates cells to absorb enough glucose from the blood for the energy or fuel they need. Insulin also stimulates the liver to absorb and store any glucose left over.

After a meal, glucose in the blood rises, which triggers insulin release. When blood glucose levels fall, during exercise, for example, insulin levels fall too.

A second hormone manufactured by the pancreas is called glucagon. It stimulates the liver to release glucose when it’s needed, and this raises the level of glucose in the blood.

Insulin is manufactured and stored in the pancreas, a thin gland about 15cm (6in) long that lies crosswise behind the stomach. It is often described as being two glands in one since, in addition to making insulin, it also produces enzymes vital for food digestion.

These include lipase, which helps digest fat, and amylase, which helps digest starchy foods. It also releases ‘bicarbonate of soda’ to neutralise any stomach acid that may otherwise damage the gut lining.

HOW MOVE ME HELPS

How we support Diabetes

Our clinicians fit orthoses and supports matched to your symptoms, activity level and goals.

Book an orthotic consultation
  • Clinical assessment Gait and function reviewed in clinic
  • Orthotic fitting Ready-to-wear or custom devices
  • Follow-up care Adjustments as your needs change
  • Footwear advice Shoes that work with your supports
  • Product options Order replacements when you need them
  • Referral support We work with your care team

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0800 550 632 — No referral needed for most appointments. Call us, or send the online form and we'll come back to you within one working day.

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