Foot health and mobility focus for National Diabetes Week
11 JULY 2016
Charles Sturt University (CSU) students are tackling some major issues for diabetics - foot health and mobility - head on at Albury-Wodonga.As part of their podiatry and physiotherapy degrees with the School of Community Health, CSU in Albury-Wodonga students provide clinical and preventative advice to clients of all ages, including people suffering the debilitating effects of diabetes."National Diabetes Week highlights the needs of the many people who suffer with diabetes," said Mr Brent Smith, clinical educator with the University's Community Engagement and Wellbeing Centre, or CEW.Diabetes causes substantial damage to feet through poor blood circulation and damaged nerves, as well as mobility problems with increased weight caused by reduced kidney function. At its extreme, complications can lead to limb amputation."At the CEW, the podiatry students are supervised by experienced professional staff to provide clinical care for diabetic clients, as well as comprehensive diabetes screening and preventative education services," Mr Smith said."In addition, physiotherapy students help people with diabetes and musculoskeletal issues to remain active and mobile, keep good health and reduce related health problems."Importantly, the CEW provides services that benefit the students as well as clients, who are helping train the next generation of health professionals who will be vital in treating this disease as the incidence of diabetes continues to rise in Australia and worldwide."The CEW now also provides speech pathology clinics and services to the residents of Albury-Wodonga. To book an appointment, call the CEW on (02) 6051 9299.
Media Note:
For interviews and pictures with clinical educator Mr Brent Smith and the CEW at work, a media event will be held at the CEW, Ellis Street, Thurgoona, on Tuesday 12 July starting at 11am.
See more on National Diabetes Week here.Fact: Did you know over 4,400 limb amputations are carried out in Australia each year due to complications caused by diabetes?
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