Diabetic Foot Care: Protecting Your Health from the Ground Up

If you have diabetes, taking care of your feet is critical. Even a small cut or blister can lead to serious complications, including infection, ulcers, or in severe cases, amputation. Diabetic foot care isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about preserving your health, mobility, and quality of life.

Why Diabetic Foot Care Is So Important

Diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation, both of which make your feet vulnerable to injury and infection. Because nerve damage can reduce your ability to feel pain, a small injury may go unnoticed and worsen over time. Without proper blood flow, healing is slower, increasing the risk of infection.

Regular foot care and preventative steps are essential to avoid complications.

Common Foot Problems Caused by Diabetes

• Loss of sensation or tingling (neuropathy)
• Slow-healing wounds or ulcers
• Foot and toe deformities (e.g., hammertoes, bunions)
• Cracks, blisters, or dry skin that may become infected
• Skin discoloration or temperature changes in the feet

Steps to Keep Your Feet Healthy

Managing your diabetes properly can prevent foot complications. Our physicians recommend a comprehensive approach to diabetic foot care, including:

• Daily monitoring of blood sugar to prevent spikes that impact circulation and nerve health
• Regular foot exams at every medical visit to check for wounds, blisters, or changes in skin texture
• Managing your ABCs: A1C (blood sugar average), Blood pressure, and Cholesterol
• Daily foot inspections at home—check for cuts, swelling, redness, or changes in nail color
• Washing feet daily with warm water and mild soap, followed by thorough drying (especially between toes)
• Moisturizing dry areas to prevent cracking, while avoiding lotion between the toes
• Wearing properly fitted shoes to reduce friction and pressure on vulnerable areas
• Regular physical activity to improve circulation and blood flow to the lower extremities
• Eating a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein

Special Diabetic Footwear

Our team may recommend custom diabetic shoes or orthotics designed to:

• Distribute pressure evenly
• Protect high-risk areas of the feet
• Prevent the formation of ulcers or blisters
• Support deformities or changes in foot structure caused by diabetes

These shoes are an important part of long-term diabetic foot care and may be covered by insurance. We’ll help you find the best fit for your needs and lifestyle.

When to See a Specialist

If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to seek care immediately:

• A sore or cut that doesn’t heal within a few days
• Swelling, redness, or warmth in one foot
• Foul odor or pus from a wound
• Loss of feeling in one or both feet
• Thickened or discolored toenails

Early intervention is key to preventing serious complications.

Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Care from Our Physicians

Our physicians offer routine diabetic foot screenings, wound care, preventative education, and assistance with custom footwear. We take a proactive, personalized approach to managing diabetes-related foot issues, helping you avoid complications and stay mobile.

Protect Your Feet—and Your Health

Don’t wait until a problem becomes an emergency. Schedule a diabetic foot exam today and take the first step toward healthy, pain-free feet.