Is your diabetes hiding a foot health risk?

Because diabetes can reduce your circulation and cause nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy), you might not even feel a minor injury happening. If left undetected, a simple rub from a tight shoe can escalate into a deep ulcer or infection.

The good news? Most diabetic foot complications are entirely preventable.

As a Foot Health Professional, my goal is to help you maintain healthy, pain-free feet through safe routine care and early prevention.

Here is your quick guide to protecting your feet at home:

Your Daily Foot Checklist

• Inspect daily: Check your feet for any cuts, bruises, redness, blisters, or scratches. Use a mirror to see the bottoms of your soles!
• Wash safely: Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap. Always test the water temperature first with your hand or elbow.
• Moisturise correctly: Apply a good foot cream to keep the skin from cracking, but never put lotion between your toes.
• Check your footwear: Never walk barefoot, even indoors. Always wear clean, padded socks without tight elastic bands, and shoes that don’t pinch.
• Care for your nails: Always cut toenails straight across and file the edges. Never cut down into the corners, as this causes ingrown nails.

A Warning on Hard Skin

If you notice corns or calluses building up, please avoid over-the-counter chemical corn-removal plasters. These acids can easily burn diabetic skin and cause dangerous ulcerations. Hard skin build-up should always be reduced safely by a professional.

How I Can Help You

While you should always receive your comprehensive annual foot check as part of your regular NHS diabetes review, I am here to provide the essential, regular maintenance your feet need to stay safe.

From safe toenail trimming to gentle callus reduction and skin health checks, routine foot health appointments keep you moving safely. If I ever spot a high-risk change in your feet, I can immediately advise you on the right NHS podiatry or GP referral pathways.

Don’t wait for a small issue to become a big problem. Let’s keep your feet healthy together!