Foot care is incredibly important for people with diabetes.

Keeping blood sugar levels within the target zone will reduce the risk of complications associated with the feet. If blood sugar levels aren’t managed correctly, the risk of reduced blood supply to the feet can lead to a loss of sensation and a condition called peripheral neuropathy. Without treatment, in severe cases, this can lead to amputation. 

The following short video (2:08) from Diabetes UK provides information about what daily foot care means in practice…

We can’t stress how important foot care is for people with

Make sure you are familiar with the specific care needed:

1. mery boards. Nails should never be cut too short or down the sides. Observe and report any marks, however small.

1. An individual should be discouraged to walk barefoot. This increases their risk of cuts to the feet. If blood supply is reduced, it can lead to slow healing and further complications, like amputation.
2. Footwear needs to fits properly. This means the correct size and heel height, no rubbing of the toes or heel and ensuring the shoe doesn’t squeeze the foot unnecessarily. Watch out for marks left by buckles, buttons, laces and snap fasteners. Make sure the tongue of a trainer is lying flat.
3. Tight fitting socks, legwear and medical equipment like a leg brace or catheter, could also restrict blood flow. Look out for marks left by seams. 
4. Discourage an individual to sit crossed-legged as this restricts the blood flow to the legs and feet.
5. Seek advice from the healthcare team or GP if injuries to the feet are not healing as expected. Make sure you read the care plan and understand when urgent GP consultation is required.

Urgently consult a GP if a person with diabetes has injured their feet which has resulted in the following symptoms: