Diabetic Foot Care

Living with diabetes means paying extra attention to your feet. Over time, diabetes can reduce feeling in the feet and slow healing, making even small injuries more serious. The good news? Daily foot care and the right footwear can prevent most foot problems.

Why Foot Care Is So Important in Diabetes

Diabetes can affect your feet in three major ways:

Reduced sensation (neuropathy): You may not feel cuts, blisters, or pressure.
Poor circulation: Slower blood flow makes healing harder.
Increased infection risk: Small wounds can worsen quickly if untreated.

Without proper care, minor problems can turn into foot ulcers, infections, or—even in severe cases, lead to amputation.

Daily Foot Care: A Simple Routine That Protects You

Checking your feet every day is one of the most important things you can do.

Daily Foot Check Checklist

Use this list once a day (or ask for help if needed):

☐ Look at the tops and bottoms of both feet
☐ Check between toes
☐ Look for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or sores
☐ Notice any changes in skin color or temperature
☐ Check for calluses, corns, or cracks
☐ Look for drainage or stains on socks
☐ Pay attention to new pain, tingling, or numbness

💡 Tip: Use a mirror or ask a family member if bending is difficult.

Keeping Your Feet Clean and Healthy

Wash feet daily with warm (not hot) water
Dry well, especially between toes
Apply moisturizer to dry skin — avoid between toes
Trim toenails straight across
Never cut corns or calluses yourself

Choosing the Right Footwear

Proper shoes can prevent pressure points, blisters, and wounds.

What to Look for in Shoes

✔ Wide toe box (toes should move freely)
✔ Soft interior with no seams rubbing
✔ Low heel and good support
✔ Secure fit (laces or Velcro)
✔ Breathable material

What to Avoid

✘ Tight or narrow shoes
✘ High heels or pointed toes
✘ Flip-flops or backless shoes
✘ Walking barefoot — even at home

🧦 Socks matter too: Choose clean, dry socks daily. Avoid tight elastic bands and seams that rub.

Warning Signs That Need Medical Attention

Contact your healthcare provider right away if you notice:

🚨 An open sore or wound
🚨 Redness spreading around a cut
🚨 Swelling, warmth, or pain
🚨 Drainage, pus, or foul odor
🚨 Black or blue skin color
🚨 Fever or chills with a foot problem
🚨 A wound that does not improve in 24–48 hours

Do not wait — early treatment can prevent serious complications.

Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.

Foot Care Goals: Your Personal Action Plan

Use this simple worksheet to stay on track:

My Foot Care Goals

I will check my feet _____ times per week
I will wear proper shoes every time I walk
I will schedule a foot exam with my provider every _____ months
I will contact my provider if I notice:

📌 Recommended: A professional foot exam at least once a year, or more often if you’ve had foot problems before.

Extra Protection Tips for Older Adults

Work with your healthcare provider to keep your blood sugar as close to goal as possible
Stay active to support circulation (even gentle walking helps). Check with your healthcare provider first before starting any new exercises.
Work with your healthcare provider to manage blood pressure and cholesterol, if applicable
Stop smoking — it reduces blood flow to the feet
Ask if podiatry visits are recommended for you

The Bottom Line

Daily foot care may feel small, but it can make a life-changing difference. By checking your feet, wearing the right shoes, and acting early when something looks wrong, you can protect your mobility, independence, and quality of life.

If you ever feel unsure — it’s always okay to ask for help.

Learn more from the American Diabetes Association (ADA):

Medical Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your healthcare provider. Always talk with your doctor, nurse practitioner, podiatrist, or other qualified healthcare professional about any questions or concerns you have regarding your health, medications, or foot care.

Do not ignore or delay seeking medical care because of information you read here. If you notice new symptoms, worsening pain, open wounds, signs of infection, or changes in your feet, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately.

This handout is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

This content was created with the assistance of AI. Any AI-generated content was reviewed by a Nurse Practitioner.