Many people living with diabetes know they should see a podiatrist regularly. Fewer actually do, usually because their feet feel fine or they're not sure what the appointment involves. Here's what to expect.

Why Get Checked When Your Feet Feel Fine?

The point of a diabetic foot check isn't to find problems you can feel. It's to find problems you can't feel yet. Diabetic neuropathy reduces sensation gradually, often with no early symptoms, and circulation changes follow a similar pattern. A podiatrist can detect these changes long before they cause trouble, which is what makes prevention possible.

Australian guidelines recommend at least an annual foot check for everyone living with diabetes, and every three to six months if you have reduced sensation, poor circulation, or existing foot problems.

What the Assessment Involves

A standard diabetic foot check takes around 30 minutes and is completely painless. Your podiatrist will:

• Review your health history, including how long you've had diabetes and how your blood sugar is tracking
• Test nerve function using a monofilament and tuning fork, with your eyes closed
• Check circulation by feeling for pulses, sometimes with a Doppler or toe pressure test
• Examine skin and nails for dryness, calluses, redness, or signs of infection
• Assess foot structure and gait, since changes like claw toes create pressure points
• Review your footwear, including your socks. Tight cuffs, bulky seams, and moisture-trapping fabrics all work against you. (It's why we designed the Diafeetez sock range the way we did.)

Afterwards, you'll be given a risk category (low, moderate, or high) and a plan: how often to come back, footwear advice, at-home care, and a GP referral if anything needs a closer look.

Accessing Podiatry Care in Australia

Medicare: From July 2025, GP Chronic Condition Management Plans (GPCCMPs) replaced the old CDM plans. If eligible, your GP can refer you with a standard letter, and you can access up to five Medicare-subsidised allied health visits per calendar year (shared across all allied health services). Ask your GP.

Also available: DVA arrangements for Gold Card holders, private health extras cover, or simply booking directly. No referral is needed to see a podiatrist, though a GPCCMP helps with costs.

Between Appointments

Check your feet each evening, keep them clean and moisturised (not between the toes), wear well-fitting shoes, and choose socks that support foot health rather than hinder it. Your foot check is the annual review. Your daily routine is what keeps the results good.

FAQs

Does a diabetic foot check hurt? No. It's entirely painless.

Do I need a referral? No, you can book directly. A GPCCMP referral from your GP may make you eligible for Medicare-subsidised visits.

What socks should I wear with diabetes? Look for a non-constrictive cuff, seamless toe box, moisture-wicking fabric, and cushioning where you need it.

👉 Shop the Diafeetez sock range. Designed by Australian Podiatrists.