Diabetic Foot Care: Prevention and Daily Management

Diabetes can affect your feet in several ways, making daily foot care an important part of your overall health management.

How Diabetes Affects Your Feet

Reduced Sensation (Neuropathy)
High blood sugar levels over time can damage nerves, leading to reduced feeling in your feet. This can make it difficult to notice injuries or pressure points.

Poor Circulation
Diabetes can affect blood flow to your feet, making wound recovery more challenging and increasing the risk of infection.

Increased Infection Risk
High blood sugar levels can impair your immune system's ability to fight infections, making even small wounds more serious.

Daily Foot Care Routine

• Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, swelling, or changes
• Use a mirror or ask someone to help if you can't see all areas
• Look between toes and on the soles of your feet

• Wash feet daily with warm (not hot) water
• Use mild soap and dry thoroughly, especially between toes
• Check water temperature with your elbow or a thermometer

• Apply moisturiser to keep skin soft and prevent cracking
• Avoid putting moisturiser between toes where it can trap moisture

Warning Signs

• Any open wounds or sores that don't improve
• Signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling)
• Changes in skin color or temperature
• Persistent pain or unusual sensations

Professional Care

• Circulation and sensation testing
• Skin and nail examination
• Risk assessment and classification
• Education and prevention strategies

*This information is educational only. People with diabetes should work closely with their healthcare team for personalised foot care management.*