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Taking care of your feet might not always be top of mind, but if you have diabetes, a little daily attention can go a long way. Small changes—like keeping your feet clean, checking for any irritation, and wearing supportive footwear like diabetic sneakers—can make all the difference in keeping them comfortable and healthy.

Because diabetes can affect circulation and nerve function, it’s easy to miss small cuts or irritation that could turn into bigger issues. The good news? A simple daily foot care routine can help prevent problems before they start, keeping you active, pain-free, and moving with confidence.

Why Foot Care Is So Important for People with Diabetes

Diabetes affects blood flow and nerve function in the feet, which can lead to two major problems:

• Neuropathy (Nerve Damage): Reduced sensation makes it harder to feel cuts, blisters, or injuries. Without pain as a warning sign, small wounds can become serious.

• Poor Circulation: Slower blood flow means slower healing, increasing the risk of infections or ulcers that don’t heal properly.

Because of this, preventative foot care is key. The best way to avoid complications is to take daily steps to keep your feet clean, dry, and protected.

Essential Daily Foot Care Tips

Following a simple daily routine can prevent infections, improve comfort, and protect against long-term complications. Here’s what you should be doing every day:

1. Inspect Your Feet Daily

Since nerve damage can make it harder to feel small injuries, visual checks are a must. Take a few moments to inspect both feet, including:

• The soles, heels, and toes for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling
• Between your toes for cracks, peeling skin, or fungal infections
• The shape of your feet—watch for changes, bunions, or signs of pressure

If you have trouble bending down, use a mirror or ask a loved one for help. If you notice any sores, open wounds, or infections, call your doctor before they worsen.

2. Wash and Dry Your Feet Properly

Keeping your feet clean and dry helps prevent infections. Follow these steps:

• Wash daily with warm (not hot) water and mild soap
• Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes (moisture buildup can lead to fungal infections)
• Avoid soaking your feet, as this can dry out your skin and cause cracking

If your skin feels dry or rough, apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer—but avoid applying lotion between the toes, as excess moisture can cause infections.

3. Keep Your Toenails Trimmed (The Right Way)

Proper nail care prevents ingrown toenails and infections. Follow these tips:

• Trim straight across to avoid curved edges that dig into the skin
• Use a nail file to smooth rough edges
• Avoid cutting too short, as this can cause irritation or infections

If you have thick, brittle, or hard-to-trim nails, see a podiatrist to avoid accidental cuts or injuries.

4. Wear the Right Socks for Comfort and Protection

Not all socks are created equal—regular cotton socks may not offer the protection you need. Diabetic-friendly socks help reduce moisture buildup, improve circulation, and prevent blisters. Look for socks that are:

• Seam-free to prevent friction
• Moisture-wicking to keep feet dry
• Non-binding (loose at the top) to promote circulation

Avoid tight socks or ones with thick seams, as they can irritate the skin.

5. Choose the Right Footwear (Diabetic Sneakers Matter!)

One of the most important daily habits for foot health is wearing properly fitted shoes. Many foot injuries happen because of ill-fitting, unsupportive shoes.

Diabetic sneakers are designed to:

• Provide extra depth and cushioning
• Reduce pressure points that can lead to blisters or sores
• Support proper circulation
• Prevent friction and irritation

When choosing shoes:

• Avoid tight or narrow shoes that press against the toes
• Stay away from sandals or flip-flops that expose feet to injury
• Replace worn-out shoes before they lose support

Investing in quality diabetic sneakers ensures all-day comfort and protection, reducing the risk of foot problems.

What to Avoid: Common Foot Care Mistakes

Even with the best intentions, certain habits can put your feet at risk—sometimes without you even realizing it. Small missteps in daily care can lead to irritation, infections, or long-term complications. Here’s what not to do when it comes to diabetic foot care:

Skipping Daily Foot Checks  

It only takes a minute, but neglecting to look at your feet each day can mean missing small cuts, blisters, or pressure points that could turn into something serious. A minor sore can quickly become infected if left untreated, especially if you have reduced sensation due to neuropathy.

Walking Barefoot

Even indoors, going without shoes increases the risk of stepping on something sharp or injuring your feet without realizing it. Without proper sensation, you may not feel a cut or scrape right away, which can lead to infection. Stick to well-fitting diabetic sneakers or soft, protective slippers at home.

Wearing Unsupportive Shoes

High heels, sandals, or shoes that are too tight can rub against your skin, cause blisters, and put unnecessary pressure on sensitive areas. Over time, this can lead to corns, calluses, and even foot deformities. Instead, opt for diabetic sneakers that offer extra cushioning and a proper fit to keep your feet comfortable and protected.

Ignoring Calluses or Corns

While these may seem harmless, thickened skin can crack, cause discomfort, and even lead to ulcers. Avoid using sharp tools, razors, or over-the-counter chemical treatments, as they can cause cuts, burns, or infections. Instead, visit a podiatrist for safe and professional treatment.

Using Hot Water or Heating Pads  

If you have reduced nerve sensitivity, you might not realize when something is too hot. Scalding water, electric blankets, or heating pads can cause burns without you noticing right away. Always test bath water with your hands first and use warm, not hot, temperatures.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll protect your feet from unnecessary harm and keep them in great shape for years to come. A little caution and the right habits go a long way!

Find the Right Diabetic Sneakers with No Cost Shoes

Foot protection starts with the right footwear. No Cost Shoes, a division of Quantum Medical Supply, offers Medicare-covered diabetic sneakers to help keep your feet comfortable and injury-free.

We handle all the paperwork, coordinate with your doctor, and even provide in-home fittings to ensure the best fit. Contact us today to see if you qualify for diabetic sneakers at little to no cost!