Living with diabetes means paying attention to your feet, even when you have no discomfort. Diabetes can affect the peripheral nerves and reduce sensation in your feet. It can also affect blood flow, making it harder for a wound to heal. A few simple daily habits can help you notice changes early and protect your feet.

Check your feet every day

Choose a time that works for you, perhaps when you take off your shoes in the evening. Sit in good light and look at the tops, soles, heels, sides and between your toes. Use a mirror or ask someone you trust to help if you can’t see all areas.

Look for cuts, blisters, cracks, swelling, colour changes, discharge, new hard skin or blood on your socks. Gently compare the warmth of your feet with the back of your hand. A newly hot or swollen foot needs urgent assessment, even if it isn’t painful.

Wash and moisturise with care

Wash your feet daily with soap and lukewarm water. Test the temperature with your elbow and avoid soaking your feet. Dry them gently, especially between your toes.

Apply moisturiser to dry skin on the tops and soles, but not between your toes. Avoid hot-water bottles and direct heat, which can cause burns you may not notice.

Protect your feet in your shoes

Wear well-fitting shoes and clean socks. Before putting your shoes on, check inside for anything that could rub or injure your skin. Avoid walking barefoot, even indoors.

Don’t cut corns or hard skin yourself, or use corn-removal plasters or creams that contain acids. If your vision, sensation or circulation is reduced, ask a foot-care professional for help with your nails.

Know when to get help

Seek a same-day professional appointment for a new wound, blister, broken skin, discharge, redness, warmth or swelling. Contact a podiatrist or healthcare professional promptly. If they are unavailable, visit your nearest clinic or hospital. Don’t wait for pain or your next routine appointment.

Go to an emergency department immediately if your foot suddenly becomes cold, pale, blue or black; redness is spreading rapidly; or you have a foot problem with fever or are very unwell.

Make foot assessments part of your routine

Arrange a professional foot assessment at least once a year, or more often if your medical aid or healthcare professional recommends it. During the assessment, the podiatrist will check your feet, including your skin, nails, circulation, sensation and footwear needs.

At Gladys Phala Podiatrist, we’re here to help you care for your feet and address concerns early. Book a foot assessment or call reception on 012 317 6849 for enquiries.

This article is a general educational tool, not an individual diagnosis or treatment plan. Follow the advice of your podiatrist or healthcare professional.

Sources: CDC: Your Feet and Diabetes; NIDDK: Diabetes & Foot Problems.