5 Foot Care Tips for Patients with Diabetes
If you have diabetes, you probably already know it can affect more than your blood sugar. Over time, high glucose levels can impact your circulation and nerve function — especially in your feet. That’s why diabetic foot care isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential.
At Utah Musculoskeletal Specialists in Salt Lake City, our experienced podiatrists help you stay a step ahead of foot problems with preventive care, advanced wound treatment, and guidance you can trust. November is American Diabetes Month, making it the perfect time to recommit to keeping your feet healthy year-round.
1. Keep your blood sugar and circulation in check
Good foot care starts with good diabetes management. When your blood sugar stays too high for too long, it damages nerves and blood vessels, making it harder for your feet to heal from cuts or blisters.
That’s why it’s important to:
- Keep your blood sugar levels in check
- Keep moving — regular activity promotes good circulation and healthy tissues
- Avoid smoking, which reduces blood flow to your legs and feet
Better circulation means healthier skin, stronger muscles, and fewer complications down the road.
2. Make daily foot checks a habit
Because nerve damage (neuropathy) can dull sensation, small injuries may go unnoticed until they become serious. A simple daily inspection helps you catch problems early.
Look for:
- Cuts, blisters, or sores
- Changes in skin color or temperature
- Swelling, redness, or drainage on socks or shoes
If you spot something unusual, contact us right away. Early treatment prevents infections and helps you heal faster.
3. Practice gentle, consistent foot hygiene
Clean, dry skin is your best defense against infection. Wash your feet every day with mild soap and warm (not hot) water, then dry them thoroughly — especially between the toes.
Moisturize afterward to prevent cracking, but skip the lotion between toes to avoid trapping moisture. Trim your nails straight across and file sharp edges to lower your risk of ingrown nails or skin irritation.
If trimming nails or inspecting your feet is difficult, our podiatrists can help with safe, in-office care.
4. Choose footwear that protects and supports
The right shoes can prevent pressure points, blisters, and wounds — especially when you have reduced sensation in your feet. Choose shoes that fit well, with soft interiors and roomy toe boxes.
Avoid going barefoot, even indoors, to prevent accidental injuries. Custom orthotics — which we design right in our office — can further reduce friction and support your arches, making walking safer and more comfortable.
5. Don’t ignore slow-healing wounds
If you notice a sore or ulcer that doesn’t heal within a few days, it’s time to see us. Delayed healing can signal poor circulation or nerve damage and may lead to serious infections if untreated.
Our podiatrists offer advanced wound care, including specialized dressings, offloading techniques, and regenerative treatments to promote healing and prevent recurrence. We also provide ongoing monitoring to protect your foot health long-term.
Partner with us for proactive diabetic foot care
Foot complications from diabetes are preventable — but prevention takes teamwork. At Utah Musculoskeletal Specialists, we’re here to help you maintain strong, healthy feet through regular check-ups, expert care, and education tailored to your lifestyle.
Call our Salt Lake City office, or request an appointment online to schedule your diabetic foot exam today. Together, we’ll help you stay mobile, active, and confident on your feet.
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