Diabetes can affect your body in many ways, but the impact on your feet is especially critical. High blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy, which may result in tingling, pain, or complete loss of sensation in your feet. This means small issues like cuts or blisters might go unnoticed and become serious infections.
Diabetes can also reduce blood flow, making it harder for wounds to heal. In severe cases, infections may lead to gangrene and require amputation to stop the spread. Even the shape of your feet can change due to a rare condition called Charcot’s foot, making mobility more difficult.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), maintaining a diabetes self-care plan that includes foot care is important. This means working with your health care team, including a podiatrist, to inspect and treat any foot issues early. Checking your feet daily helps catch problems before they worsen, especially when you might not feel pain due to nerve damage.
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Here’s what you need to watch and do:
Check your feet daily: Look for cuts, sores, blisters, redness, swelling, or any unusual spots. Use a mirror or ask someone to help if you have trouble seeing the bottoms of your feet. Also check between your toes, where infections can start. Early detection of minor issues can prevent major complications.
Wash and dry thoroughly: Wash your feet daily with warm (not hot) water and mild soap to remove dirt and reduce the risk of infection. After washing, gently pat them dry, especially between the toes, where moisture can promote fungal growth. Avoid soaking your feet, as it can dry out your skin and increase the risk of cracking.
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Moisturise smartly: Keep the skin on your feet soft and smooth by applying a thin layer of lotion or petroleum jelly on the tops and bottoms of your feet. This helps prevent dry, cracked skin, which can lead to infections. Avoid applying lotion between the toes, as excess moisture there can encourage fungal infections.
Trim nails carefully: Trim your toenails straight across and file the edges gently to prevent ingrown nails, which can cause infections. Never cut into the corners of the nails. If you have thick or curved nails, or can’t safely trim them yourself, see a podiatrist for regular nail care.
Wear proper shoes and socks: Always wear well-fitting shoes and clean, padded socks, even indoors, to protect your feet from injury. Avoid tight shoes, high heels, and those with pointed toes. Look for shoes that support the foot and allow room for toes. Avoid barefoot walking to reduce the risk of cuts or stepping on sharp objects.
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Improve blood flow: Promote circulation by putting your feet up when sitting, moving your toes and ankles frequently, and staying physically active with low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or yoga. Avoid crossing your legs for long periods. If you smoke, seek support to quit, smoking severely restricts blood flow and slows healing.
Get regular foot exams: Have your feet checked at every health care visit. Ask your provider to inspect your skin, check for nerve damage, and assess blood flow. People with a history of foot ulcers, nerve damage, or deformities should get comprehensive foot exams at least once a year, or more often if advised.
Report any issues early: Don’t wait for foot problems to heal on their own. Contact your health care provider right away if you notice wounds, redness, swelling, warmth, or foul odor. Early treatment can prevent serious infections, hospital stays, and the risk of amputation.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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