If you have diabetes, footcare isn’t just a good habit—it can save your feet. Up to one-third of people with diabetes develop foot ulcers in their lifetime, and about 60% of those ulcers get infected. These problems can lead to serious outcomes. In the United States, nearly 130,000 diabetes-related amputations happen every year.
You can lower your risk by checking your feet daily, washing and drying them well, moisturizing safely, trimming toenails straight across, and never going barefoot.
Key Takeaways
Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, or changes to catch problems early.
Wash and dry your feet gently, especially between the toes, to prevent infections.
Wear well-fitting shoes and clean socks at all times to protect your feet from injury.
Trim toenails straight across and avoid cutting too short to prevent infections.
See your doctor quickly if you notice sores, swelling, redness, or wounds that do not heal.
Why It Matters
Risks of Neglect
You might wonder what happens if you skip daily footcare. The risks are real and can be serious. When you have diabetes, your feet face more problems than you might think. If you ignore small cuts, blisters, or dry skin, these can turn into bigger issues fast. Here’s what can happen if you don’t pay attention to your feet:
You may not feel pain from injuries because of nerve damage. This means you could have a cut or blister and not even know it.
Dry, cracked skin lets germs in, which can cause infections.
Poor blood flow slows down healing, so even small wounds can last a long time.
Infections can spread quickly and sometimes lead to ulcers or even amputation.
Tip: Checking your feet every day helps you catch problems early, before they get worse.
Let’s look at some common complications:
Complication | Description |
|---|---|
Skin changes | Dry, peeling, or cracked skin from nerve damage. |
Calluses | Thick skin from pressure, which can break down into ulcers. |
Poor circulation | Hardening of blood vessels, making it harder to heal. |
Foot ulcers | Open sores that can get infected and may lead to limb loss. |
Infections | Skin or bone infections, abscesses, or gangrene. |
Deformities | Changes in foot shape, like hammertoes or Charcot foot. |
Amputation | Sometimes needed if infections or gangrene cannot be controlled. |
Diabetes and Your Feet
Diabetes changes your feet in ways you might not notice right away. High blood sugar can damage nerves, causing numbness, tingling, or pain. You may not feel heat, cold, or even a sharp object in your shoe. Blood vessels can also get narrow and hard, making it tough for your feet to heal from cuts or sores.
You might see these changes:
Dry, cracked skin or peeling
Loss of hair on your toes or feet
Thick, yellow toenails
Swelling, redness, or changes in foot shape
Almost half of people with diabetes develop nerve damage in their feet. This makes it easy to miss injuries. Poor blood flow and nerve damage together raise your risk for ulcers, infections, and even amputation. That’s why daily footcare is so important. By taking a few minutes each day, you can protect your feet and avoid serious problems.
Daily Footcare
Taking care of your feet every day can help you avoid serious problems. Here’s how you can make footcare part of your daily routine.
Inspect Feet
Start each day by checking your feet. Look for any sores, cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, corns, calluses, or changes in your nails. Use a mirror to see the bottoms of your feet or ask someone to help if you have trouble bending. Good lighting makes it easier to spot small changes. Don’t forget to check between your toes. Early detection of problems can stop them from getting worse. Studies show that people who inspect their feet daily are less likely to develop ulcers. This simple habit is one of the most important steps in footcare.
Tip: If you notice anything unusual, like a sore that won’t heal or a new blister, call your doctor right away.
Wash and Dry
Wash your feet every day with warm (not hot) soapy water. Hot water can burn your skin, especially if you have nerve damage. Use your elbow to test the water temperature before you dip your feet in. Be gentle—use a soft washcloth or sponge. Never soak your feet for long periods because this can dry out your skin. After washing, pat your feet dry with a towel. Make sure you dry between your toes, as moisture there can lead to infections.
Use lukewarm water and mild soap.
Pat, don’t rub, your feet dry.
Always dry between your toes.
Moisturize Safely
Dry skin can crack and let germs in. Keep your feet soft by applying a thin layer of lotion or cream. Focus on the tops and bottoms of your feet, especially the heels. Avoid putting moisturizer between your toes. Lotion can build up there and create a warm, damp space where fungus and bacteria grow. People with diabetes have a higher risk of skin infections, so it’s best to keep those spaces dry.
Apply moisturizer to heels and soles.
Skip the area between your toes.
Toenail Care
Trim your toenails straight across. Don’t cut them too short or round the corners. This helps prevent ingrown toenails, which can lead to infections. Use clean nail clippers and file any sharp edges. If your nails are thick or hard to cut, soak your feet briefly in warm water to soften them, but don’t soak for too long. Never try to cut corns or calluses yourself. If you notice any nail changes, pain, or signs of infection, see your doctor or a podiatrist.
Cut toenails straight across.
Avoid cutting nails too short or rounding the edges.
Use proper tools and keep them clean.
Don’t try to remove corns or calluses at home.
Note: Always ask your healthcare provider for help if you have trouble trimming your nails.
No Barefoot
Never walk barefoot, not even at home. Shoes and socks protect your feet from cuts, burns, and other injuries. Walking barefoot increases your risk of stepping on something sharp or hot, which you might not feel if you have nerve damage. Even socks alone do not give enough protection. Always wear shoes that fit well and socks that cushion your feet.
Wear shoes and socks at all times.
Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or going barefoot, even indoors.
Making these steps part of your daily routine can help you keep your feet healthy. Regular footcare lowers your risk of ulcers, infections, and other serious problems. If you ever notice something unusual, reach out to your healthcare team right away.
Footwear
Choosing the right footwear is one of the best ways you can protect your feet if you have diabetes. Well-fitting shoes and proper socks help prevent injuries, blisters, and ulcers. Let’s break down what you should look for.
Shoes
You want shoes that fit well and keep your feet safe. Ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters, calluses, and even ulcers. Many people with diabetes have nerve damage, so you might not feel pain from a small injury. That’s why shoe choice matters so much.
Here’s what to look for in diabetic-friendly shoes:
Wide and deep toe box—gives your toes room and prevents pressure.
Seamless interior—reduces rubbing and irritation.
Soft, stretchable uppers—materials like leather or mesh feel comfortable.
Extra depth—lets you use custom orthotics if needed.
Cushioned insoles and arch support—help absorb shock and reduce strain.
Non-slip outsole—keeps you steady and helps prevent falls.
Adjustable closures—Velcro or laces let you get a snug, secure fit.
Tip: Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet may be swollen. Always wear the socks you plan to use with your shoes.
Avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose. Both can increase pressure and friction, leading to skin breakdown. Closed-toe, firm-backed shoes offer the best protection. Sandals, flip-flops, and high heels are not safe choices.
Socks
Socks do more than keep your feet warm. The right socks help manage moisture, reduce friction, and protect your skin. Diabetic socks are designed with your needs in mind.
Look for these features in diabetic socks:
Moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool, acrylic, or bamboo rayon keep feet dry.
Seamless construction prevents rubbing and blisters.
Extra padding cushions high-pressure areas.
Non-binding tops support circulation without squeezing.
Antimicrobial yarns (like copper or silver) help fight bacteria and odor.
Here’s a quick guide to recommended sock materials:
Material | Why It’s Good for Diabetic Feet |
|---|---|
Merino Wool | Soft, breathable, manages moisture, gentle on skin |
Acrylic | Wicks moisture, dries quickly |
Synthetic Blends | Durable, stretchy, enhances moisture control |
Bamboo Rayon | Breathable, antimicrobial, keeps feet cool |
Copper/Silver Yarns | Fights bacteria and fungi, reduces odor |
Note: Always wear clean, dry socks with your shoes. Change them daily, or more often if they get damp.
Never go barefoot, even at home. Shoes and socks together give your feet the best protection from injury.
Warning Signs
What to Watch For
You need to know what changes in your feet mean trouble. Catching problems early can save you from pain and bigger health issues. Every day, look for these warning signs:
Tingling, burning, or pins-and-needles feeling in your feet or toes
Swelling in your feet or ankles
Redness or changes in skin color
Feet that feel warmer or cooler than usual
Open wounds or ulcers
Cracks between your toes
Ingrown toenails or thick, yellow nails
Loss of hair on your toes or feet
Calluses, bunions, or hammertoes
Signs of infection like pus, odor, or spreading redness
Tip: If you notice any of these signs, write them down. This helps you remember what to tell your doctor.
When to Call a Doctor
Don’t wait if you spot something unusual. Some foot problems need quick action. Call your doctor right away if you see:
A sore, blister, or wound that does not heal after a few days
Skin that turns blue, gray, or white
Persistent pain, numbness, or tingling
Any sudden change in the shape or color of your foot
Every foot ulcer needs a doctor’s check, even if it doesn’t hurt. Fast treatment can stop infections and prevent serious problems. If you feel sick, have chills, or notice red streaks going up your leg, get medical help right away. Your daily checks and quick calls to your doctor are the best ways to keep your feet healthy.
Check-Ups
Regular Exams
You might think your feet look fine, but regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can catch problems before they get serious. Every person with diabetes needs at least one foot exam each year. If you have nerve damage, poor circulation, or a history of foot ulcers, you’ll need more frequent visits. Here’s a quick guide to how often you should see your provider:
Risk Category | Who Does This Apply To? | How Often for a Foot Exam? |
|---|---|---|
0 | No nerve damage | At least once a year |
1 | Nerve damage present | Every 6 months |
2 | Nerve damage plus poor circulation or foot deformity | Every 3 to 6 months |
3 | History of ulcer or amputation | Every 1 to 3 months |
During your visit, your provider will check your skin, nails, sensation, and blood flow. They may use a small tool to test feeling in your feet. Always take off your shoes and socks for the exam. Keep your feet clean and dry before your appointment. These exams help spot issues early, so you can avoid infections, ulcers, and even amputation.
Tip: Medicare covers foot exams every 6 months for people with nerve damage, so don’t skip these important visits.
Working with Your Provider
Your healthcare team is your partner in keeping your feet healthy. Podiatrists play a big role in this. They can:
Spot early signs of trouble like skin changes, ulcers, or deformities.
Trim your nails safely and remove calluses.
Give advice on shoes and custom orthotics.
Teach you how to check your feet at home.
Treat wounds and help them heal faster.
When you see your provider, speak up about any changes you notice—like redness, swelling, numbness, or sores. Use simple words and describe what you feel. Bring a list of questions or symptoms if you need help remembering. If you have a caregiver, invite them to join the conversation. Your provider wants to help you stay healthy, so don’t be afraid to ask questions or share your concerns.
Note: Take photos of your feet with your phone if you notice changes between visits. This helps your provider see what’s going on.
Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare team make a big difference. You can prevent small problems from turning into big ones and keep your feet strong for years to come.
You can protect your feet and your health by making footcare part of your daily routine. Check your feet, wash and dry them, trim your nails, and wear the right shoes. Regular check-ups help you catch problems early. Talk with your healthcare team if you notice any changes. When you stay proactive, you lower your risk of serious issues and feel more confident. Taking care of your feet helps you stay active and enjoy life.
FAQ
How often should you check your feet if you have diabetes?
You should check your feet every day. Look for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Use a mirror for hard-to-see spots. Daily checks help you catch problems early.
What should you do if you find a cut or blister?
Clean the area gently with mild soap and water. Cover it with a clean bandage. Avoid using harsh chemicals. Call your doctor if it does not heal or looks worse after a day or two.
Can you use a heating pad or hot water bottle on your feet?
No, you should not use heating pads or hot water bottles. You might not feel burns if you have nerve damage. Always keep your feet warm with socks instead.
What kind of shoes are best for diabetic feet?
Choose shoes that fit well, have a wide toe box, and no seams inside. Soft, cushioned insoles help protect your feet. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or high heels.
When should you see a doctor about your feet?
See your doctor right away if you notice sores, swelling, redness, or any wound that does not heal. Quick action can prevent serious problems.