Your Diabetic Foot Care Checklist

If you are having diabetes, it is important to take good care of your feet. Poor foot health can lead to complications like infections, ulcers, or even amputations. Maintaining a daily diabetic foot care routine is essential to keep your feet healthy and prevent issues from coming. This article is a complete diabetes and foot care checklist to follow, ensuring you minimize the risk of foot complications and manage your diabetes effectively.

1. Daily Foot Inspection

• Check your feet daily for cuts, wounds, redness, or swelling.
• Use a mirror if necessary to inspect the bottoms of your feet.
• Pay attention to any changes, especially in skin color or texture.
• Meet your doctor if you find any sores or unusual signs that don’t heal quickly.

2. Wash and Dry Feet Properly

• Give yourself a foot wash using gentle soap and warm (not hot) water every day.
• Be gentle while washing, especially between the toes.
• After washing, dry your feet thoroughly with a cotton towel, including the areas between the toes.
• Moisture locked between toes can lead to fungal infections like athlete’s foot.

3. Keep Skin Moisturized

• Use a moisturizing lotion or cream to keep the skin soft and prevent dryness or cracking.
• Avoid putting lotion between the toes, as it can encourage fungal growth.
• To preserve moisture in your feet, use a moisturizing lotion after cleaning and drying them.

4. Toenail Care

• If you want to avoid ingrown nails, cut your toenails straight across.
• Smooth the edges of your nails with a file to prevent them from cutting into the skin.
• If you can’t trim your toenails due to limited mobility or vision issues, have a podiatrist or healthcare provider assist you.

5. Choose the Right Footwear

• Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes that don’t rub or cause pressure points.
• Avoid high heels, sandals, or shoes with narrow toes that can cause wounds or irritation.
• Consider custom-made or orthopedic shoes, especially if you have foot deformities or nerve damage.
• For footwear customized to your specific foot and diabetic needs, visit the Dr. Durai Diabetic and Foot Care Clinic.
• Always wear socks with your shoes to protect your feet from friction.

6. Never Walk Barefoot

• Walking barefoot increases the risk of cuts, infections, and injuries, especially for those with diabetic neuropathy.
• Always wear protective footwear, even indoors, to prevent injuries.
• Use shoes designed for people with diabetes, as they offer extra protection and comfort to your feet.

7. Maintain Good Blood Circulation

• Try not to spend a lot of time standing or sitting still.
• Elevate your feet when sitting to improve circulation.
• Wiggle your toes and move your feet around regularly to stimulate blood flow.
• Do not wear tight socks or shoes that can restrict circulation.

8. Avoid Heat or Cold Exposure

• Diabetic feet are often less sensitive to temperature changes, so avoid exposing your feet to extreme cold or heat.
• Don’t use heating pads, hot water bottles, or ice packs directly on your feet.
• Always check the water temperature with your hands before soaking your feet to prevent burns.

9. Control Blood Sugar Levels

• Keeping your blood sugar levels in check helps prevent nerve damage and reduces the risk of developing diabetic foot problems.
• Follow your prescribed diabetes management plan and diabetes and foot care routine, including medication, diet, and regular exercise.
• Work closely with your healthcare provider to ensure your blood sugar levels stay within the target range.

10. Manage Foot Calluses and Corns

• Don’t attempt to cut or shave off calluses or corns yourself, as this can lead to infections.
• Use a pumice stone gently after washing your feet to smooth calluses.
• Consult a podiatrist for professional removal if calluses become painful or infected.

11. Keep Feet Dry and Clean

• Change socks daily to keep your feet dry. It is an important step in diabetic foot care.
• Select socks that are moisture-absorbing to keep feet dry and prevent fungal infections.
• Avoid tight socks that can restrict blood flow; opt for diabetic-friendly socks with seamless designs.

12. Quit Smoking

• Smoking can impair blood circulation, making it harder for foot wounds to heal.
• If you smoke, seek help from healthcare providers or support groups to quit.
• Improving circulation through lifestyle changes can help keep your feet healthier.

13. Stay Active

• Engage in regular physical activity to improve circulation and overall health in diabetes and foot care management.
• Opt for low-impact exercises, such as walking or swimming, to avoid doing too  

• You should see your doctor immediately if you notice any of these signs.
• Neuropathy can reduce your ability to feel injuries, making it critical to maintain proper diabetic foot care.

Dr. Durai’s Diabetes and Foot Care Clinic

Dr. Durai’s Clinic provides specialized care for diabetic patients, focusing on comprehensive foot health. From personalized care plans to custom footwear solutions, their team of experts helps prevent and manage diabetic foot complications. With a team of specialists, including podiatrists and dietitians, Dr. Durai’s Diabetes and Foot Care Clinic in Pudukottai offers everything needed to keep your feet healthy while managing diabetes. Regular check-ups at the clinic can help detect potential issues early and avoid serious complications. Make an appointment today to ensure your feet stay healthy!