Diabetic Foot Care: Protecting Your Feet for Long-Term Health

Living with diabetes means paying extra attention to your feet, and for good reason. Your feet can be one of the first places where diabetes-related complications appear, yet with the right care and regular check-ups, most serious problems are entirely preventable. At InStep Podiatry, we work closely with people who have diabetes to keep their feet healthy, catch potential issues early, and provide treatment when needed. Proper diabetic foot care is one of the most important investments you can make in your long-term wellbeing.

What Is Diabetic Foot Care?

Diabetic foot care is a specialised area of podiatry focused on preventing, identifying, and treating foot problems that can occur when you have diabetes. It involves regular professional assessments, daily self-care practices, and prompt treatment of any issues that arise.

The goal of diabetic foot care is straightforward: to keep your feet healthy and functioning well so you can stay active and maintain your quality of life. This requires a partnership between you and your healthcare team, with podiatry playing a central role in monitoring and protecting your feet.

Why Diabetes Affects Your Feet

Diabetes can affect your feet in two main ways. First, elevated blood sugar levels over time can damage the nerves in your feet, a condition called peripheral neuropathy (pronounced: puh-RIF-er-ul new-ROP-uh-thee). This nerve damage can reduce your ability to feel pain, temperature, and pressure, meaning you might not notice a cut, blister, or injury until it becomes more serious.

Second, diabetes can affect blood circulation, particularly to the feet and lower legs. Reduced blood flow means that injuries heal more slowly and your body has less ability to fight infection. When these two factors combine, a minor foot problem can escalate into something much more significant if not addressed promptly.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Being aware of changes in your feet is essential for early intervention. You should check your feet daily for any cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or changes in skin colour. Pay attention to areas between your toes, as moisture can accumulate there and create problems.

Other warning signs include numbness or tingling sensations in your feet, a feeling of pins and needles, or a loss of sensation that makes it difficult to feel the floor beneath you. You might notice that your feet feel unusually cold, or that wounds seem to take longer to heal than they used to. Changes in the shape of your feet, thickening toenails, or the development of calluses can also indicate that your feet need professional attention.

How We Assess Diabetic Feet

At InStep Podiatry, we perform comprehensive diabetic foot assessments that examine multiple aspects of your foot health. We test the sensation in your feet using specialised equipment to determine whether nerve damage is present and, if so, to what extent.

We also assess the blood flow to your feet by checking pulses and, when necessary, using additional diagnostic tools. Our podiatrists examine your skin for any wounds, calluses, or areas of concern, and we check the overall structure and function of your feet. This thorough assessment allows us to identify your risk level and create a personalised care plan that addresses your specific needs.

Treatment and Care Options

Regular Foot Assessments: Depending on your risk level, we recommend assessments every three to twelve months. These check-ups allow us to monitor any changes and catch potential problems before they develop. Callus and Corn Management: Areas of thickened skin can create pressure points that lead to ulcers if not properly managed. Our podiatrists safely remove calluses and corns, reducing your risk of complications.

Wound Care: If you develop a foot wound or ulcer, prompt professional treatment is essential. We provide specialised wound care designed to promote healing and prevent infection, working alongside your GP and other healthcare providers as needed.

Custom Orthotics and Footwear Advice: Properly fitted shoes and custom orthotics can help distribute pressure evenly across your feet, protecting vulnerable areas and reducing your risk of ulceration.

What to Expect from Ongoing Care

Diabetic foot care is not a one-time treatment but an ongoing partnership focused on keeping your feet healthy year after year. Most people with diabetes benefit from regular podiatry appointments, with the frequency depending on their individual risk level.

Between appointments, you’ll follow daily foot care practices at home. Our team provides clear guidance on what to look for, how to care for your feet safely, and when to seek help. Many of our patients find that with consistent care, they can maintain healthy, comfortable feet for many years.

Daily Foot Care Tips

Good diabetic foot care starts at home. Check your feet every day, using a mirror to see the soles if needed. Wash your feet daily in warm water, being careful to test the temperature with your elbow or a thermometer rather than your feet, as reduced sensation can make it difficult to judge heat accurately. Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.

Moisturise your feet to prevent dry, cracked skin, but avoid applying cream between the toes where excess moisture can encourage fungal infections. Never walk barefoot, even at home, and always check inside your shoes for foreign objects before putting them on. Wear clean, well-fitting socks without tight elastic bands, and choose shoes that support and protect your feet without rubbing or creating pressure points.

When to See a Podiatrist

You should see a podiatrist promptly if you notice any cuts, sores, or blisters on your feet that don’t heal within a few days. Redness, warmth, or swelling that doesn’t improve, any discharge or unusual odour from a wound, and changes in skin colour are all reasons to seek professional care quickly.

Even without obvious problems, everyone with diabetes should have at least one comprehensive foot assessment per year. If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes and haven’t yet seen a podiatrist, now is the perfect time to start protecting your feet.

Your Trusted Podiatry Team in Far North Queensland

At InStep Podiatry, we’ve helped patients across Cairns, Innisfail, Tully, and the Atherton Tablelands maintain healthy feet and prevent diabetes-related complications. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of managing diabetic foot health in tropical Queensland, and we’re committed to providing thorough, compassionate care that keeps you moving.

Your feet carry you through life. Book an appointment with InStep Podiatry today and let us help you protect them for years to come.