Looking after your feet can become a familiar part of your diabetes routine. A daily check helps you notice changes, while regular professional assessments help you understand your own level of risk and the care you need.
Why checking matters even without pain
Diabetes can affect sensation and blood flow in the feet, so an injury may not hurt as you expect. High blood glucose can also affect healing. The NDSS guide to diabetes and your feet explains these risks and the importance of professional checks.
Build a simple daily routine
Look at the tops, soles and spaces between your toes. A mirror or help from someone you trust can make this easier. Notice changes in the skin, colour or temperature and any new marks or damage. Compare with what is usual for your feet. The NDSS guide includes a daily-check checklist.
Wash and dry your feet carefully, particularly between the toes. Moisturiser can help with dry skin, but keep it out of the spaces between your toes. Wear footwear that fits and protects your feet, and seek advice if nail care is difficult. See Diabetes Australia’s everyday foot-care tips.
Get help promptly for a change
Contact your GP urgently if you notice a wound, a change in foot shape, colour or temperature, new pain, or a red, hot or swollen foot. Do not wait for a routine appointment because the change seems small or is painless. NDSS outlines the warning signs requiring urgent attention.
Make the routine work for you
If reaching or seeing your feet is difficult, say so at your next appointment. You can discuss a practical way to check them and who could assist. Keep the agreed contact details somewhere easy to find so you know whom to call if a change appears.
Questions for your next review could include:
- What is my current foot-risk level?
- How often should I have a professional check?
- Can you show me how to check areas I cannot see easily?
- Which changes should I report, and who should I contact?
Foot-care support in Epping
Read about our podiatry and diabetes educator services. Contact the clinic for routine appointment enquiries, and tell the team if your concern is new or changing.
