Nerve damage in diabetes means a blister, cut or stone in your shoe can go completely unnoticed. A daily check replaces the pain signal your feet may no longer give you.
Every evening, five minutes
- Look at the top, sides and soles of both feet. Use a mirror on the floor, or ask a family member, if you cannot bend comfortably.
- Check between every toe for cracks, softness or a bad smell.
- Feel for hot or cold patches — a spot that is warmer than the rest of the foot can mean infection or early Charcot foot.
- Look for changes in colour, swelling, or a toenail digging into the skin.
- Wash with lukewarm (never hot) water, dry thoroughly between the toes, and moisturise the top and soles — but not between the toes.
Shoes and socks
Shake out your shoes before wearing them and feel inside with your hand. Wear seamless cotton socks, change them daily, and never walk barefoot — not even inside the house or in the temple.
What not to do
Do not use corn caps, blades or over-the-counter acid removers. Do not cut calluses yourself. Do not use hot water bottles or heating pads on your feet. These are among the most common causes of the wounds we treat.
When to come in
Any cut, blister, colour change or swelling that has not clearly improved in three days needs a professional look — the same week, not the next month.
This article is for general information and does not replace an individual consultation. If you are worried about your child or yourself, please book an appointment.