Diabetes puts feet at higher risk. Raised blood sugar over time can reduce sensation and affect circulation, so injuries are noticed later and heal more slowly. The good news is that consistent daily care and regular professional checks are very effective at preventing problems. Here is how to look after diabetic feet.
Why Are Feet at Risk With Diabetes?
Two things drive the risk. Reduced sensation means a blister, cut or rub can go unfelt and unnoticed, and reduced circulation means any injury is slower to heal. Together they turn what would be a minor problem into one that needs careful attention. Understanding this is the reason the daily habits below matter.
Daily Diabetic Foot Care at Home
A simple daily routine protects diabetic feet:
- Check your feet every day, including the soles and between the toes, using a mirror if needed
- Wash daily and dry carefully, especially between the toes
- Moisturise dry skin, but not between the toes
- Never cut corns or hard skin yourself, and take care with nails
- Wear well-fitting shoes and check inside them for anything that could rub
If reaching or seeing your feet is difficult, ask someone to help or arrange professional care.
Warning Signs to Check Your Feet For
Get your feet checked promptly if you notice any cut, blister or wound that is not healing, any redness, swelling, warmth or discharge, or a change in the colour of the skin. With diabetes it is always safer to have these looked at quickly than to wait and see.
Why Regular Podiatry Matters for Diabetic Feet
Alongside daily care, regular professional review is one of the most effective ways to keep diabetic feet healthy. A podiatrist checks circulation and sensation, manages nails and hard skin safely, and spots developing problems early. Our foot care service supports diabetic patients.
Advanced Footcare Group provides careful, regular foot care for patients with diabetes, in the clinic and at home.
To arrange a diabetic foot check, call 01306 883 332 or book an appointment. This guide is general information and does not replace individual advice from your podiatry or diabetes team.
Frequently asked questions.
Why does diabetes affect the feet?
Over time, diabetes can reduce sensation in the feet and affect circulation. That means minor injuries can go unnoticed and heal more slowly, so small problems can become serious ones. This is why daily checks and regular professional care matter so much for anyone with diabetes.
How often should someone with diabetes see a podiatrist?
Everyone with diabetes should have their feet reviewed regularly, and more often if they have reduced sensation, circulation problems or a history of foot issues. Your podiatrist and diabetes team will advise the right interval for you. Regular review is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious complications.
When should I seek urgent help for a diabetic foot?
Seek advice promptly if you notice a cut, blister, ulcer or wound that is not healing, any redness, swelling, warmth or discharge, or a change in colour of the foot. With diabetes it is always safer to have these checked quickly rather than wait.