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Looking after your feet doesn’t have to be complicated and a simply daily foot care can make a big difference when managing diabetes.
If you’re managing diabetes your feet may be more vulnerable to complications due to reduced circulation, nerve damage (neuropathy), dry skin, and slower healing. What makes diabetic foot care especially important is that you may not always notice when something is wrong.
Small issues like blisters, cuts, or cracked skin can develop into more serious infections if left untreated. When managing diabetes, it’s important to be aware that 15–20% of people with diabetes may be hospitalised due to a foot ulcer or infection. This highlights just how vital good foot care is. Building healthy foot care habits into your daily routine is one of the most effective ways to help protect your long-term health.
High blood glucose levels can impact both blood flow and nerve function over time. This may reduce sensation in the feet and slow the body’s natural healing process.
For many people, diabetic foot complications can begin with something as minor as dry skin or a small blister.
Here are some of the most common foot concerns to watch for when managing diabetes.
Dry skin is one of the most common foot concerns associated with diabetes.
When blood glucose levels remain elevated, the body can lose fluids more easily, which may lead to dryness and dehydration in the skin. Over time, dry skin can crack, peel, or become irritated, creating openings where bacteria or fungi may enter.
Signs to look out for include:
Keep Feet Moisturised Daily
Using a diabetes-friendly foot cream regularly can help support healthy skin and reduce dryness. Check out our Dia-Balm that has proven positive and quick effects on dry skin. It is important to apply any forms of creams and moisturisers after showering, and before bed.
For complete foot comfort, pairing moisturising care with breathable diabetic socks can also help reduce friction and irritation throughout the day.
Our Glucology Diacare Socks are designed with moisture-wicking and copper-infused antimicrobial properties to help keep feet dry, fresh, and comfortable.
Diabetes may affect circulation, which can reduce the amount of oxygen and nutrients reaching the feet. This can slow the healing process for cuts, blisters, or sores.
Even small wounds should be monitored carefully, as slower healing may increase the risk of infection.
Peripheral neuropathy is a common diabetes-related condition caused by damage to the nerves.
High blood sugar levels can affect the small blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the nerves, especially in the feet and legs. Over time, this may reduce sensation and make it harder to notice pain, pressure, heat, or injuries.
Common symptoms may include:
Reduced sensation can increase the risk of unnoticed injuries or infections, making regular foot checks essential.
People managing diabetes may be more vulnerable to foot infections due to slower healing, dry cracked skin, and reduced immune response.
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare professional or podiatrist as soon as possible.
Building a simple daily foot care routine can help support healthier feet and reduce the risk of complications.
Check Your Feet Every Day
Inspect your feet for cuts, redness, swelling, blisters, or skin changes. Use a mirror if needed to check the soles of your feet. You should always be looking for these three crucial signs: Heat, Swelling, and Redness. If you see any combination of these signs make an appointment to see your doctor for a Certified Diabetes Educator. In infections that have progressed further, you may also notice discolouration in your feet and make sure to monitor any cuts or injuries that don't seem to be healing.
Keep skin moisturised:
Applying moisturiser after showering and before bed may help lock in hydration and maintain softer, healthier skin. Avoid applying cream between the toes, as excess moisture in these areas may increase the risk of fungal infections.
Wear Supportive Footwear
Avoid tight shoes, rough seams, or footwear that rubs against the skin.
Choose the Right Socks
Diabetic-friendly socks can help improve comfort while reducing moisture and irritation. Explore our Glucology Diacare Socks specially designed for sensitive feet.
Avoid Walking Barefoot
Walking barefoot may increase the risk of cuts, burns, or injuries that can go unnoticed.
Protect Feet During Warmer Weather
While sandals and thongs are popular during summer, open footwear may increase rubbing, dryness, and exposure to injury. Choose supportive, protective footwear whenever possible.
1. Why is foot care so important for people managing diabetes?
People managing diabetes are at higher risk of foot complications due to reduced circulation and nerve damage. This can make it harder to feel injuries and slower for wounds to heal, so daily foot checks are essential.
2. What are the early signs of diabetic foot problems?
Early signs may include dry or cracked skin, redness, swelling, blisters, numbness, tingling, or wounds that are slow to heal. Any unusual changes should be checked by a healthcare professional.
3. How often should I check my feet if I have diabetes?
t is recommended to check your feet daily. Look for cuts, blisters, swelling, colour changes, or any signs of irritation, especially if you have reduced sensation in your feet.
4. What type of socks are best for diabetic foot care?
Socks designed for people managing diabetes are ideal because they help reduce pressure, friction, and moisture build-up. Options like Glucology Diacare Socks are designed with a non-binding fit, seamless construction, and moisture-wicking materials to support everyday foot comfort.
5. Can footwear really affect diabetic foot health?
Yes. Poorly fitted shoes or socks can cause rubbing, pressure points, and blisters, which may lead to complications. Supportive, well-fitting footwear and breathable diabetic socks can help protect sensitive feet and reduce risk.
Explore our blog for more tips and resources on diabetes management.
Disclaimer: This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or a qualified health provider with any questions about your condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 (US) or 000 (Australia) immediately, or visit your nearest emergency care center.
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I have had secondary breast cancer and have taken breast cancer hormone treatment for seven years. When I told my breast surgeon that my feet had stiffened up, more noticeable at night when I lie horizontally in bed. My doctor immediately said that would be the Arimidex medication I was taking, he said many ladies complain about the bones in their feet and legs. I find that apart from the tightening of my toes, they feel tender and my shoes hurt at times, I feel I have neuropathy. I have been having remedial massage on my feet for 2 years but the stiffness does not go away. Do you have any suggestions.
You mentioned foot neuropathy – tingling and numbness – associated with diabetes. I have had type 2 diabetes since I was 19. I’m now 57 & have feet problems. I have a burning pain sensation on the soles of both feet … this sensation drives me crazy, is constant and worsens in hot weather. My GP told me this sensation is called peripheral neuropathy. However, I recently underwent a nerve test on my hands and feet and, while both hands show quite a lot of nerve damage, I was told that my feet were okay. So I’m now confused about what’s going on with my feet. I have seen a podiatrist in the past. Do you have any suggestions about what I could do?? Thankyou, Kerry Levey