University of California San Francisco

Diabetes and Prevention of Foot Problems

Preventing diabetic foot problems requires daily inspection for cuts, blisters, and redness, washing feet daily in warm water, never walking barefoot, and ensuring well-fitting shoes are worn at all times. Controlling blood sugar, quitting smoking, and annual professional foot exams are critical to avoiding serious complications like ulcers, infections, and amputation. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]
 
Key Daily and Regular Prevention Tips
  • Daily Inspection: Check feet for cuts, sores, blisters, redness, or swelling. Use a mirror for the sole or ask for help.
  • Hygiene: Wash feet daily with warm, not hot, water and dry thoroughly, especially between toes.
  • Footwear: Never walk barefoot, even at home. Always wear socks and supportive, well-fitting shoes to prevent injury.
  • Toenail Care: Trim toenails straight across and file sharp edges, or see a podiatrist if nails are thick or difficult to reach.
  • Skin Care: Use lotion to keep skin soft, but avoid applying it between toes, which can foster fungal growth. [1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9]
Medical and Lifestyle Management
  • Blood Sugar Control: Consistently managing blood sugar levels is the primary way to prevent nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation.
  • Professional Exams: Have feet examined by a healthcare provider at every visit and at least once a year by a specialist.
  • Activity: Stay active to promote blood flow, but choose low-impact exercises.
  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking restricts blood flow to the feet. [1, 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12]
When to Seek Medical CareContact a doctor immediately if you notice:
  • A cut, blister, or bruise that does not start healing after one day.
  • Ingrown toenails, corns, or calluses.
  • Tingling, numbness, burning, or pain in the feet.
  • Signs of infection like redness, warmth, or pus. [1, 2, 3, 10, 11]
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
  • Do not try to remove corns or calluses yourself with home remedies.
  • Avoid using heating pads, hot water bottles, or electric blankets on your feet, as you may not feel if they are burning you.
  • Do not wear tight socks or stockings. [1, 4, 5, 8]


 

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