Essential Guide for Diabetics
A complete guide to protecting your feet, preventing diabetic foot ulcers, and recognizing warning signs early when they're easiest to treat.
Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputations in the United States. However, most amputations are preventable with proper foot care and early treatment.
15-25%
of diabetics develop a foot ulcer
85%
of amputations follow an ulcer
High blood sugar damages nerves over time, reducing sensation in your feet. You may not feel pain, heat, cold, or pressure—meaning you can injure your foot without knowing it.
Warning signs: Numbness, tingling, burning sensations, sharp pains, inability to feel touch or temperature
Diabetes damages blood vessels, reducing blood flow to your feet. Poor circulation makes it harder for wounds to heal and increases infection risk.
Warning signs: Cold feet, blue or pale skin, slow-healing cuts, leg cramping when walking
High blood sugar impairs your immune system's ability to fight infection. Even minor cuts or blisters can quickly become serious infections.
The danger: Infections can spread rapidly to bone and may require amputation if not treated promptly
With proper daily foot care, regular inspections, and prompt treatment of any problems, you can significantly reduce your risk of serious complications. Prevention and early detection are your best defenses.
Checking your feet every single day is essential for catching problems early. Here's exactly how to do it.
Sit in a well-lit area. Use a handheld mirror or ask a family member for help if you can't see the bottom of your feet clearly.
Look for cuts, scratches, blisters, redness, swelling, bruises, or color changes. Check between each toe for cracks, peeling skin, or moisture.
Use a mirror or have someone check for you. Look for cracks, dry skin, calluses, corns, or any breaks in the skin.
Check for discoloration, thickening, ingrown nails, or fungal infections (yellow, brittle nails).
Gently feel your feet for bumps, lumps, warm spots, or areas that feel different. Temperature changes can indicate infection or inflammation.
Before putting on shoes, shake them out and feel inside for pebbles, rough seams, or foreign objects that could injure your feet.
Don't wait—call us at
877-545-1300Follow these essential steps every day to keep your feet healthy and prevent complications.
Use lukewarm water (not hot)—test with your elbow or thermometer if you have neuropathy
Use mild soap and wash gently between toes and all surfaces
Limit soaking to 5-10 minutes—too much water softens skin and increases risk
Never soak if you have open wounds or sores
Pat dry gently with a soft towel—don't rub vigorously
Dry carefully between toes—moisture between toes can lead to fungal infections
Make sure feet are completely dry before putting on socks
Apply lotion or cream to tops and bottoms of feet, but NOT between toes
Use unscented, diabetic-friendly lotions without alcohol
Avoid getting lotion in cracks or open areas
Never moisturize between toes—this traps moisture and promotes fungal growth
Cut straight across—never round the corners or cut into the sides
File sharp edges gently with an emery board
Trim after bathing when nails are softer
Cut in good lighting and use proper nail clippers
Can't reach or see well? Have a podiatrist trim your nails. Never try to trim nails if you have neuropathy or vision problems.
Don't use razor blades, corn removers, or chemical treatments
Don't use pumice stones aggressively
Always have a podiatrist remove corns and calluses safely
Proper shoes and socks are your first line of defense against foot injuries. Here's what you need to know.
Change socks daily and immediately if they become damp. Always wear socks with shoes—never go barefoot or wear shoes without socks.
Feet swell throughout the day, so shop when they're at their largest
Foot size can change over time, especially with diabetes
Make sure shoes are comfortable immediately—don't expect to "break them in"
Run your hand inside to check for rough seams, tears, or protruding parts
Should have 1/2 inch space between longest toe and shoe end
Medicare may cover special diabetic shoes if you qualify
Always wear shoes or slippers—even indoors. Walking barefoot puts you at risk for cuts, punctures, burns, and injuries you may not feel due to neuropathy. Protect your feet 24/7.
This is the #1 most important thing you can do. High blood sugar damages nerves and blood vessels, making foot problems more likely. Work with your doctor to keep your A1C, blood glucose, and blood pressure in target ranges.
Good control = better healing: Well-controlled diabetes significantly reduces your risk of developing foot ulcers and improves healing if problems do occur.
Smoking dramatically reduces blood flow to your feet and slows healing. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your foot health. Ask your doctor about smoking cessation programs.
Regular physical activity improves circulation and helps control blood sugar. Choose low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or cycling. Always wear proper footwear and check your feet before and after exercise.
Have a healthcare provider examine your feet at least once a year—more often if you have neuropathy or circulation problems. Professional exams can catch early warning signs you might miss.
What to expect: Sensation testing, circulation checks, inspection for deformities, and assessment of your foot care routine.
Neuropathy makes it hard to sense temperature. Take extra precautions:
Print or save this checklist and review it every day to build healthy foot care habits.
Remember: Taking care of your feet today prevents serious problems tomorrow. Make foot care part of your daily diabetes management routine.