5 Essential Tips For Diabetic Foot Care

Excellent foot care is an essential part of living with diabetes. So it's imperative that you look after your feet with regular visits to a podiatrist. Our everyday diabetic foot care tips will also help them stay healthy.  

Why is foot care so vital for those with diabetes?  

If you're living with diabetes, it's essential that you take the time to care for your feet. Unfortunately,  those with diabetes are at higher risk of foot problems – including reduced blood flow and nerve damage – if you don't give them the necessary attention. If left unchecked, your feet could also develop more serious issues, including infections and ulcers. 

Essential diabetic foot care tips 

Diabetic foot care at home is no substitute for a medical pedicure by a trusted podiatrist. However, establishing a home care routine can keep your feet in optimum health between appointments. 

Get regular foot check-ups

Diabetic foot problems can escalate quickly, so get yourself into a regular self-checking routine. 

Start by rubbing your hands over your feet, including the heels, soles, uppers and sides. Check for anything unusual, including redness, swelling and lumps and bumps. If anything gives you cause for concern, make an appointment with your podiatrist.  

Try and check your feet daily. It's usually easiest when getting dressed in the morning or undressed at night. 

Ensure your footwear fits 

Your shoes shouldn't just look good. They need to fit correctly too. Too tight or ill-fitting footwear can cause all kinds of problems for your feet, including sores, blisters and irritation.   

Proper footwear should be comfortable and supportive, with plenty of cushioning for prolonged wear. You don't have to sacrifice aesthetics — just ensure that your feet can't move around and that your toes aren't crushed or uncomfortable. Opt for shoes with laces or straps to keep your feet securely in place. 

Moisturise daily 

Another good habit to develop for diabetic foot care is daily moisturising. Ask your podiatrist for a recommendation, or use a suitable emollient lotion or cream.  

Now apply to the top and bottom of your feet, avoiding putting cream between the toes. It's best to keep the between-toe area dry to prevent infection. 

Massage the moisturiser using circular movements to encourage good circulation. Then apply a pair of clean cotton socks to prevent the cream or lotion from drying out too quickly. 

Be careful when cutting toenails 

Cutting your nails is a simple task. But if you pierce the skin without noticing, it could lead to further injuries, so care and attention is vital. 

Start by washing your feet in warm soapy water, cleaning the nails with a brush, and carefully drying the skin with a soft towel. Then use a pair of nail clippers to cut the nails straight across. Don't cut them too short or trim the sides of the nail, but use an emery board to gently shape any sharp corners. 

Nails grow more quickly in the spring and summer, so book a medical pedicure to keep your feet looking good in sandals.  

Eat a healthy, balanced diet  

Good nutrition and exercise are essential when you're managing diabetes. So eating a healthy, balanced diet could help reduce the risk of serious foot complications.  

Healthy choices for good diabetic foot care include plenty of fresh vegetables, whole grains and other complex carbohydrates. If in doubt, ask your diabetes care team for their advice. 

Visit a podiatrist for expert diabetic foot care 

Paying attention to your diabetic foot care at home is one of the best ways to look after your feet. However, you should always see a podiatrist for regular medical pedicures to keep your feet looking great and in the best of health.