Diabetic Foot Care: How to Keep Your Feet Healthy & Prevent Complications
If you have diabetes, taking care of your feet is essential. High blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation, making it harder to feel injuries and heal properly. Even a small cut or blister can turn into a serious infection if left untreated. The good news? With the right care, you can keep your feet healthy and prevent complications.
Why Foot Care Is Important for People with Diabetes
Diabetes increases the risk of foot ulcers, infections, and even amputations if problems go unnoticed. Common diabetic foot issues include:
✅ Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): You may not feel pain, heat, or injuries on your feet.
✅ Poor Circulation: Slower healing increases the risk of infections.
✅ Dry, Cracked Skin: Increases the chance of infections entering through open wounds.
✅ Fungal or Ingrown Nails: Can become painful and infected without proper care.
Regular foot checks and care routines can help prevent serious complications and keep you mobile and comfortable.
Daily Foot Care Tips for People with Diabetes
1. Check Your Feet Every Day
Since diabetes can reduce sensation in your feet, it’s important to check for:
✔ Cuts, blisters, or sores
✔ Redness or swelling
✔ Changes in nail color or thickness
✔ Cracks or dry skin
Tip: If you have trouble seeing the bottom of your feet, use a mirror or ask a loved one for help.
2. Wash & Dry Your Feet Properly
🧼 Wash your feet daily with warm (not hot) water and mild soap.
🩵 Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections.
3. Moisturize, But Avoid Between the Toes
💧 Use a gentle moisturizer on dry skin to prevent cracks, but never apply lotion between the toes—it can create a moist environment for fungus to grow.
4. Trim Your Nails Carefully
✂ Trim nails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails.
📌 If your nails are thick or hard to cut, see a foot care nurse for safe trimming.
5. Wear Proper Footwear
👟 Choose well-fitting, cushioned shoes with good support.
🧦 Wear moisture-wicking diabetic socks to prevent blisters.
🚫 Avoid walking barefoot—even indoors—to prevent injuries.
6. Keep Your Blood Sugar Under Control
Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels reduces the risk of nerve damage and infections. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice on diet, exercise, and medication.
7. See a Foot Care Professional Regularly
If you have diabetes, regular foot care appointments can help detect problems early and prevent complications. A foot care nurse can safely trim nails, treat corns/calluses, and monitor for potential issues before they become serious.
When to Seek Help
Call a foot care specialist or doctor if you notice:
🚨 A sore that won’t heal
🚨 Signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling, pus)
🚨 Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in your feet
🚨 A change in skin color (pale, blue, or very red)
Early treatment is key to avoiding serious complications!
Need Professional Foot Care? I Can Help!
As a Registered Nurse specializing in diabetic foot care, I provide clinic appointments and home visits to help you maintain healthy feet. Whether you need routine nail care, callus removal, or help managing diabetic foot concerns, I’m here to support you.
📞 Book an appointment today! Call (613) 700-6556 or visit www.beckysfootcare.com to schedule your foot care visit.
Your feet deserve the best care—let’s keep them healthy together!
