Living with diabetes requires paying close attention to your feet. High blood sugar levels can affect circulation and nerve function, which makes foot problems more likely. With the right care, most issues can be managed.
Why Footcare Matters if You Have Diabetes
Diabetes can reduce blood flow to your feet, slowing down healing and making infections more difficult to fight. It can also cause nerve damage, meaning you may not feel cuts or blisters until they get worse. Regular checks of your feet can help you catch small problems early before they progress into more serious conditions.
Common Foot Issues Among Diabetic People
Common diabetic foot issues include:
- Dry skin and cracked heels – Diabetes can interfere with the skin’s ability to retain moisture. As a result, feet may become very dry or cracked, especially around heels and ankles. These cracks are weaknesses, where bacteria or fungi can enter, which could lead to further issues.
- Corns and calluses – In people with diabetes, these can build up more quickly over pressure points (such as under your toes or on the ball of your foot) and mask more serious damage underneath.
- Fungal Nail Infections – Poor circulation, high blood sugar, and nerve damage can increase the risk of infection. Diabetes can also cause nails to thicken, which can increase the risk of further problems, such as fungal nail infections or ulcers, if left untreated.
- Ingrown toenails – Diabetics may be less sensitive to foot pain, so an ingrown nail can go unnoticed until it has become inflamed or infected.
- Ulcers or wounds that don’t heal – Ulcers (open wounds) are one of the most serious risks to people with diabetes and they can take longer to heal. If you suspect this, we recommend you see a doctor.
- Changes in skin colour or temperature – this can signal a serious condition, so it is recommended that medical advice is sought as soon as possible.
How to Check Your Feet at Home
If you are diabetic, we recommend you get into the routine of checking your feet every day. Look at the soles, heels, toes, and between your toes. Use a mirror if needed.
Look out for:
- Cuts, redness, or swelling
- Blisters or hard skin
- Any discharge or unpleasant smell
- Changes in shape or colour
If you notice anything unusual, we recommend you book an appointment with a podiatrist or your GP.
Foot Health Tips for Diabetics – Healthy Feet Every Day
A few small habits make a big difference:
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Wash your feet daily and dry carefully between your toes (do not use a hairdryer to dry your feet!).
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Moisturise your feet, but avoid the area between your toes
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Wear socks that fit well and change them daily
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Avoid walking barefoot
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Choose shoes with a wide toe and soft, supportive lining
- Check water temperature with your elbow before getting into a bath of hot water. Reduced sensation to hot and cold means damage may be caused before you notice the heat from the hot water.
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See your podiatrist at least once a year for a routine foot care and check-up
How a Podiatrist Can Help People With Diabetes
If you have diabetes, expert foot care from a podiatrist can make a big difference to the well-being of your feet and prevent complications. At Cutting Edge Podiatry, we are very experienced in treating foot conditions among diabetic clients. We have access to the latest technology to heal your feet quickly and pain-free.
We will take the time to assess your feet and recommend the treatment that suits you best. You can view our range of treatments here.
If you are concerned about your feet, contact our friendly Cambridge clinic today and take the first step towards healthier feet. You can book online or call our friendly team on 01223 633 038. No referral needed.
