Diabetic Foot Care: How to Prevent Ulcers, Infections, and Serious Complications

If you have diabetes, protecting your feet isn’t optional — it’s essential. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and reduce circulation in the lower extremities, increasing the risk of ulcers, infections, and serious complications.

Proper diabetic foot care plays a critical role in preventing avoidable hospitalizations and long-term mobility issues.

Why Diabetes Affects Your Feet

Diabetes can impact foot health in two major ways:

1. Peripheral Neuropathy

Nerve damage can reduce sensation in your feet. You may not feel cuts, blisters, or pressure points, allowing small injuries to worsen unnoticed.

2. Poor Circulation

Reduced blood flow slows healing. Even minor wounds can become serious infections if not treated promptly.

Together, these factors increase the risk of diabetic foot ulcers.

Common Diabetic Foot Problems

Patients with diabetes are more likely to develop:

• Foot ulcers

• Slow-healing wounds

• Infections

• Thick calluses

• Ingrown toenails

• Fungal infections

• Charcot foot (a weakening of foot bones)

Routine monitoring can prevent many of these complications.

Daily Diabetic Foot Care Tips

Protecting your feet starts at home. Follow these guidelines:

• Inspect your feet daily for cuts, redness, or swelling

• Wash feet gently and dry thoroughly, especially between toes

• Moisturize dry skin (avoid applying between toes)

• Trim nails straight across

• Never walk barefoot

• Wear properly fitted, supportive shoes

• Change socks daily

If you notice any open sores, discoloration, or drainage, seek medical care immediately.

Why Regular Diabetic Foot Exams Are Critical

Even if your feet feel fine, annual — and sometimes more frequent — diabetic foot exams are essential.

During a comprehensive exam, a podiatrist will:

• Test sensation and nerve function

• Evaluate circulation

• Check for pressure points and deformities

• Trim thick calluses safely

• Assess footwear

• Identify early warning signs of ulcers

Early detection prevents small concerns from becoming major complications.

Preventing Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Ulcers often develop under areas of high pressure, such as the ball of the foot or heel. Prevention strategies may include:

Custom Orthotics

Custom inserts redistribute pressure and reduce friction.

Proper Footwear

Diabetic-friendly shoes provide extra depth, cushioning, and protection.

Routine Callus Care

Thick calluses can break down into ulcers if not treated professionally.

Advanced Therapies

If wounds develop, treatments such as advanced wound care techniques and Class IV laser therapy may help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and support tissue healing.

When to See a Podiatrist Immediately

Seek prompt evaluation if you notice:

• An open sore that doesn’t improve

• Redness spreading around a wound

• Swelling or warmth

• Drainage or odor

• Blackened tissue

• Increased pain

Early intervention can prevent infection and protect long-term foot health.

Protect Your Mobility with Preventive Care

Diabetic foot complications are largely preventable with routine care and professional monitoring. A proactive approach can help you maintain independence, mobility, and overall health.

At Gentle Foot and Ankle Care, we provide comprehensive diabetic foot exams and personalized treatment plans to reduce your risk of complications. If you have diabetes, schedule your foot evaluation today and take an important step toward protecting your health.