How to Take Care of Your Feet When You Have Diabetes

HDFC ERGO Team

23 September 2026

3 mins read

Summary

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing foot issues due to nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy) and reduced blood flow. These conditions can cause loss of sensation, making minor injuries go unnoticed and allowing them to progress into ulcers or infections. The article shares seven practical daily habits a€” including regular selfa€‘checks, proper footwear, good hygiene, careful nail care, watching for warning signs, routine foot examinations and maintaining good blood sugar control. Following these steps can significantly reduce the risk of diabetic foot complications.

Diabetes & Foot Care: Don’t Ignore Your Feet

If you have diabetes, your feet need your attention every single day. Diabetes can damage the nerves of the feet, causing numbness or reduced sensation. It can also affect blood circulation. As a result, a small cut, blister, burn or pressure injury may go unnoticed and can develop into an ulcer or infection. In some cases, this can lead to serious complications. Peripheral neuropathy is one of the most important factors contributing to diabetic foot ulcers.

Make these 7 habits a part of your daily routine:

1. Check your feet every day.

Look at the soles, heels and spaces between the toes. Use a mirror or ask a family member for help if you cannot see properly.

2. Never walk barefoot.

Even at home, wear comfortable, well-fitting footwear. Avoid tight shoes and footwear that causes rubbing or pressure.

3. Keep your feet clean and dry.

Wash them gently, dry especially between the toes, and use moisturizer for dry skin – but avoid applying it between the toes.

4. Take care with nails and corns.

Do not cut corns or calluses yourself or use chemical corn removers. Seek professional advice, particularly if you have reduced sensation.

5. Look for warning signs.

Redness, swelling, warmth, blisters, cracks, discharge, a new wound, change in colour or unexplained pain should never be ignored. An open wound or unexplained swelling/redness/warmth requires prompt medical assessment.

6. Get your feet examined regularly.

Every person with diabetes should have a comprehensive foot examination at least once a year – and people at higher risk may need examination much more frequently.

7. Control your diabetes.

Good blood sugar control, along with management of blood pressure, cholesterol, and smoking cessation, is an important part of protecting your feet.

Conclusion

Remember: ‘’A small wound on a diabetic foot is never just a small wound."
Foot care is an essential part of diabetes management. By staying vigilant, adopting healthy daily habits and seeking timely medical attention whenever a concern arises, individuals with diabetes can effectively safeguard their feet and prevent serious problems. As the article emphasizes, even a small wound on a diabetic foot deserves immediate attention and proactive care today can prevent major complications tomorrow.

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