Diabetes affects much more than blood sugar. Over time, it can damage nerves and reduce circulation in the feet, turning a small blister or cut into a serious problem. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, good daily foot care is one of the most effective ways to prevent complications.
Why Diabetes Puts Your Feet at Risk
High blood sugar can cause peripheral neuropathy, which reduces your ability to feel pain, heat, and pressure. At the same time, poor circulation slows healing. Together, these changes mean an injury can go unnoticed and become infected before you realize something is wrong.
Daily Foot Care Checklist
- Check both feet every day for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or nail changes. Use a mirror or ask a family member for help.
- Wash your feet in lukewarm water and dry them carefully, especially between the toes.
- Moisturize the tops and bottoms of your feet, but not between your toes.
- Trim nails straight across, or let a podiatrist do it if you have thick nails or reduced sensation.
- Always wear socks and shoes, even indoors.
- Shake out your shoes before putting them on.
- Never use heating pads or hot water bottles on numb feet.
Problems You Shouldn’t Treat at Home
Avoid cutting corns or calluses, using over-the-counter wart removers, or digging out ingrown toenails. These “bathroom surgery” habits are a common cause of infection in people with diabetes. Fungal infections such as toenail fungus should also be treated professionally. The National Library of Medicine offers additional guidance on diabetic foot health.
Choose the Right Footwear
Shoes should be roomy, supportive, and free of rough seams. Patients with pressure points may benefit from protective inserts or custom foot orthotics.
Schedule Regular Podiatry Exams
Most people with diabetes should have a comprehensive foot exam at least once a year, and more often if they have neuropathy or a history of foot problems. Dr. Ken Dennis provides diabetic foot exams, nail and callus care, and neuropathy treatment at our Memorial City office. Learn more about our podiatry services or call (713) 465-8833 to book your exam.
