Diabetes Foot Health: Care Instructions

When you have diabetes, your feet need extra care. Diabetes can damage nerves and blood vessels in your feet. You may not feel a blister, callus, or other injury. It could become a larger sore (ulcer), or it could lead to a serious infection. Taking care of your feet can help prevent these problems.

How can you care for your feet?

Caring for your feet can be quick and easy. You may want to do your daily foot care when you’re bathing or getting ready for bed.

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  Check your feet daily for blisters or sores. Use a mirror or have someone help you, if needed.

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  Wash your feet every day. Use warm (not hot) water. Pat your feet dry. Don’t rub. And dry well between your toes.

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  Put a thin layer of lotion on your feet. Don’t put lotion between your toes. Stop using any lotion that causes a rash.

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  Talk to your doctor about trimming your own toenails. Have them trimmed at your doctor’s office or at a foot clinic (podiatrist), if needed. This is especially important if you have neuropathy or vision loss, or if your toenails are thick and yellow.

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  If you trim your own toenails, trim them straight across. Trim them after you bathe. Use a nail file to smooth sharp edges.

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  Use proper footwear. Don’t wear sandals or shoes with very thin soles, and don’t go barefoot.

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  Tell your doctor if you have a foot problem. Get treatment for a foot problem right away, even if it’s something small like a blister.

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  Track your blood sugar to keep it in your target range. Follow your meal plan, and try to be active each day. Take medicines as prescribed.

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  If you smoke, quit or cut back as much as you can. Talk to your doctor if you need help quitting.

How can you choose shoes?

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have a foot sore, an ulcer or break in the skin, bleeding corns or calluses, or an ingrown toenail.
• You have blue or black areas, which can mean bruising or blood flow problems.
• You have peeling skin or tiny blisters between your toes or cracking or oozing of the skin.
• You have a fever for more than 24 hours and a foot sore.
• You have new numbness or tingling in your feet that does not go away after you move your feet or change positions.
• You have unexplained or unusual swelling of the foot or ankle.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You cannot do proper foot care.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.