Diabetes significantly increases the risk of serious foot complications. Peripheral neuropathy — nerve damage caused by sustained high blood glucose — reduces sensation in the feet, meaning injuries, pressure sores, and infections can go unnoticed until they become serious. Reduced circulation means those same wounds heal slowly. The combination is dangerous: in Australia, diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputations.
The good news is that the vast majority of diabetic foot complications are preventable with a consistent daily foot care routine and regular podiatry check-ups.
The daily diabetic foot care routine
1. Inspect your feet every day
Check the entire foot — including the soles and between the toes — for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or changes in skin colour or temperature. Use a mirror or a telescopic foot inspection mirror if you can't easily see the sole. If you notice anything unusual, contact your podiatrist or GP promptly.
2. Wash and dry thoroughly
Wash feet daily in lukewarm water (test the temperature with your elbow — neuropathy means you may not feel water that is too hot). Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes. Moisture between the toes creates an ideal environment for fungal infection and maceration.
3. Moisturise — but not between the toes
Apply a high-urea foot cream to the soles and heels daily to prevent dry, cracked skin. Avoid applying moisturiser between the toes — the extra moisture increases infection risk in this area. A 10% or 15% urea cream is ideal for daily diabetic foot moisturising.
4. Cut nails carefully
Cut toenails straight across, not too short, and smooth any sharp edges with a nail file. If your nails are very thick or you have difficulty cutting them safely, have them managed by a podiatrist. Never use sharp implements to dig around or under the nail.
5. Wear appropriate footwear — always
Never walk barefoot, even indoors. Always wear shoes or slippers with a closed back and a protective sole. Check inside shoes before putting them on — a small stone or seam can cause a pressure wound that you may not feel. Choose footwear with a wide toe box and adequate depth to avoid compression of the toes.
6. Check your socks
Wear clean, moisture-wicking socks daily. Avoid socks with tight elastic bands that restrict circulation, and avoid thick seams over the toes. Diabetic-specific socks with seamless construction and non-binding cuffs are ideal.
When to see a podiatrist
People with diabetes should have a professional foot check at least annually — more frequently if you have peripheral neuropathy, poor circulation, a history of foot ulcers, or other complications. Your podiatrist will assess your foot pulses, nerve sensation, skin and nail condition, and footwear.
Any foot wound in a person with diabetes — however minor it appears — should be assessed by a podiatrist or GP within 24 hours.
Diabetic foot care products
At TBS Health, we stock a range of products specifically suited to diabetic foot care:
- Diabetic foot care collection — moisturisers, wound care, and protective products
- High-urea foot creams — Callusan, Walker's ULTRA, Akileine and more
- Wound care and dressings — for managing foot wounds at home
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. If you have diabetes and are experiencing any foot symptoms, please consult your podiatrist or GP promptly.