How should somebody with diabetes take care of their feet?

People with diabetes need to take special care of their feet because they are at increased risk of developing foot problems due to nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation. Here are some important foot care tips for people with diabetes:

1. Inspect feet daily: Check your feet every day for any cuts, sores, blisters, redness, swelling, or other signs of injury or infection. Use a mirror or ask someone else to help you check areas that are difficult to see.
2. Keep feet clean and dry: Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap, making sure to dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
3. Moisturize: Use a moisturizer to keep the skin on your feet soft and hydrated, but avoid applying moisturizer between the toes, as this can increase the risk of infection.
4. Trim nails carefully: Trim your toenails straight across and file any sharp edges to prevent ingrown toenails. If you have trouble trimming your own nails, or if you have ingrown toenails, consider seeing a podiatrist for professional nail care.
5. Wear properly fitting shoes: Wear shoes that fit well and provide adequate support and protection for your feet. Avoid shoes with pointed toes, high heels, or tight straps that can cause pressure points and increase the risk of injury.
6. Protect feet from injury: Avoid walking barefoot, especially outdoors, and wear shoes or slippers to protect your feet from injury. Check your shoes for any objects or rough spots that could cause irritation or injury.
7. Check shoe fit: Check the inside of your shoes for any foreign objects or rough areas that could cause irritation or injury. Make sure your shoes fit well and don’t rub or squeeze your feet.
8. Manage blood sugar levels: Keep your blood sugar levels within your target range to help prevent nerve damage and improve circulation, which can reduce the risk of foot problems.
9. Quit smoking: Smoking can restrict blood flow to the feet and increase the risk of foot problems, so if you smoke, consider quitting.
10. See a podiatrist regularly: Schedule regular foot exams with a podiatrist (foot doctor) who can assess your foot health, identify any potential problems, and provide appropriate treatment and advice.

By following these foot care tips and paying attention to the health of your feet, you can reduce the risk of foot problems and maintain good foot health despite having diabetes.