Diabetes Foot Care Guidelines

If you have diabetes, taking care of your feet is one of the most important things you can do to protect your overall health. Diabetes can reduce blood flow to the feet and cause nerve damage (neuropathy), making it harder to feel pain, heat, or cold — and much easier for small problems to become serious ones.

Why Foot Care Matters for Diabetics

High blood sugar over time damages the nerves and blood vessels in your feet. This means a small cut, blister, or sore can go unnoticed and become infected. In severe cases, poor circulation can prevent wounds from healing, potentially leading to ulcers or, in the worst cases, amputation.

The good news: most diabetic foot complications are preventable with consistent daily care and regular visits to a podiatrist.

Daily Foot Care Checklist

• Inspect your feet every day. Look for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or nail problems. Use a mirror to check the bottoms of your feet if needed.
• Wash your feet daily in warm (not hot) water. Dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
• Moisturize the tops and bottoms of your feet — but not between the toes, where moisture can cause fungal infections.
• Trim toenails straight across and file the edges. Never cut into the corners, which can cause ingrown nails.
• Wear clean, dry socks every day. Choose seamless socks made of moisture-wicking material.
• Never go barefoot — even indoors. A small pebble or sharp object can cause a wound you may not feel.

Choosing the Right Footwear

Shoes that fit well are critical. Look for footwear with a wide toe box, good arch support, and no seams that could rub against your skin. Always check inside your shoes before putting them on to make sure there are no foreign objects or rough spots.

Diabetic shoes and custom orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist can significantly reduce pressure points and the risk of ulcers.

When to See a Podiatrist

• Any cut, sore, or blister that doesn't start healing within a day or two
• Redness, warmth, or swelling in any part of the foot
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations
• Thickened or discolored toenails
• Calluses or corns that are growing or painful

As a board-certified podiatrist with over ten years of experience, Dr. Jordan Drucker recommends that all diabetic patients schedule a comprehensive foot exam at least once a year — and more frequently if you have any existing foot problems or neuropathy.

Control Your Blood Sugar

The single most effective thing you can do for your feet is to keep your blood sugar levels within your target range. Work closely with your primary care physician or endocrinologist to manage your diabetes, and make podiatric care a regular part of your healthcare routine.

Your feet carry you through life — protect them with the same diligence you give to every other aspect of your diabetes management.