Anyone living with diabetes knows managing the disease means much more than watching blood sugar levels. Over time, diabetes affects the body, particularly extremities like the feet, causing nerve damage and neuropathy. Taking care of your feet becomes especially important, especially if you’re losing sensation or feeling in your feet due to neuropathy.

Following a consistent foot care routine can help protect your feet from further injury or infection. Let’s look more closely at how diabetes affects foot health and review some essential foot care tips to include in your daily routine.

How does diabetes affect my feet?

Diabetes can affect your feet in several ways, particularly by making them more susceptible to injury and infection. Understanding the underlying problems is the first step to better managing your health.

What is neuropathy?

One of the most common diabetes-related complications is neuropathy, which is damage to the nerves. This condition can diminish your ability to sense pain, temperature, and feeling in your feet.¹ Imagine stepping on a sharp object or having something irritating inside your shoe and not feeling it—this can easily lead to unnoticed cuts, blisters, or sores that can become infected.

Neuropathy can also alter the structure of your feet and toes. If your shoes suddenly feel ill-fitting, these changes might be the cause. It's crucial to discuss with your doctor whether specialized therapeutic footwear or inserts are necessary, rather than forcing your feet into shoes that could cause further harm.

Skin issues: Dryness and cracking

Diabetes can also affect the skin on your feet, leading to significant dryness, which can result in peeling and cracking. This occurs because nerve damage can disrupt your body's natural control over skin moisture and oil production. This condition is sometimes referred to as "diabetic dry feet."

To help prevent this, dry your feet completely after washing. Then rub on a thin layer of plain petroleum jelly or an unscented moisturizer to keep moisture in. Don’t put creams or oils between your toes, because the dampness there can lead to fungus. Also, don’t soak your feet for a long time—it can actually make your skin drier.

Poor circulation

Another consequence of diabetes is poor circulation, meaning reduced blood flow. Diabetes can cause the blood vessels in your feet and legs to narrow and harden. This impairs your body's ability to deliver vital nutrients and immune cells, making it harder to fight infections and heal wounds.

You can take steps to enhance your circulation:

• Stop smoking because it contributes to hardening of the arteries.
• Listen to your healthcare team about managing blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Wear warm socks if your feet are cold.

Healthy foot care routines

Creating a healthy, daily foot care routine is critical. These simple practices can be done by most seniors or caregivers and help lower the risk of developing serious complications.

Excellent foot hygiene is nonnegotiable when you have diabetes. Fit these tasks into your daily routine to keep your feet as healthy as can be.

• Cleanse your feet thoroughly each day with mild soap and lukewarm water.
• Dry them completely, particularly between toes, to prevent fungal infections.
• Moisturize the tops and bottoms of your feet with lotion, avoiding between toes.
• Inspect your feet daily for any cuts, blisters, sores, redness, corns, or calluses.
• Choose moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry throughout the day.
• Check inside your shoes for foreign objects like pebbles before putting them on.
• Wear properly fitting shoes that are comfortable.

Stay active

Physical activity benefits everyone, and for individuals with diabetes, it's especially vital for foot health. Movement promotes healthy circulation, which is essential for preventing foot complications. You don't need intense workouts to gain these advantages. Even a regular brisk walk can stimulate blood flow in your feet and legs^.2

If you have an open foot sore, your podiatrist or senior primary care doctor might advise resting until it heals. In such cases, alternative activities like chair exercises or upper-body workouts can help you stay active without putting strain on your feet.

Proper nail care: A gentle approach

Taking care of your toenails is equally important as caring for the foot itself. When it comes to trimming nails, learn about the best practices to avoid injury.³

• Soften nails: The ideal time to trim your nails is after a bath or shower, when they are softest.
• Use the right tools: Use nail clippers or scissors specifically designed for toenails. Disinfect your tools monthly with isopropyl alcohol.
• Cut straight across: To minimize the risk of ingrown toenails, trim your nails straight across.
• Smooth rough edges: Always file your nails in one direction to prevent weakening.
• Leave cuticles undisturbed: Cuticles protect the nail root. Cutting or pushing them back can allow bacteria to enter and cause infection.
• Moisturize after trimming: This helps keep your nails flexible.
• Monitor nail changes: Your nails can offer clues about your overall health. If you observe changes in color, texture, or shape, consult a board-certified dermatologist. These changes could signal an underlying condition or infection.

Protect your feet

If you think about it, your feet spend a lifetime doing the hard work for your body. They help by supporting your weight, keeping you upright, and walking and flexing all day long, sometimes for hours in challenging or tiring positions.

• Walking barefoot: Even indoors, avoid going barefoot. Neuropathy can prevent you from feeling minor injuries.
• High heels and pointed shoes: These types of shoes place excessive pressure on specific areas of your feet, leading to discomfort and potential problems. Opt for shoes with a wide toe box and low heels.
• Tight or restrictive footwear: Shoes that are too snug can impede blood flow, hindering wound healing. Avoid shoes that squeeze your feet or have tight straps.
• Flip-flops and open-toed sandals: These offer minimal protection and support, increasing the likelihood of injuries and infections.
• Prioritize health over style: While fashion is appealing, the health of your feet should always be your primary consideration when choosing diabetic footwear.

By following these basic healthy foot care practices, you can significantly reduce your risk of diabetes-related foot complications and maintain healthy feet for years to come. Always consult with your CenterWell primary care doctor or a podiatrist for personalized advice and care.

Disclaimer:

Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new fitness or dietary plan. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not imply endorsement of any website or other sources. For any health-related questions, contact your healthcare provider.

Sources:

• “Foot Complications,” American Diabetes Association, last accessed on September 12, 2025, https://diabetes.org/about-diabetes/complications/foot-complications
• Horizon Team, “Diabetic Food Care Steps, last accessed on September 12, 2025, https://horizonfootankle.com/diabetic-foot-care-steps/#:~:text=3.,exercises%20may%20be%20recommended%20instead.
• “How to Trim Your Nails”, American Academy of Dermatology Association, last accessed on September 12, 2025, https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/nail-care-secrets/basics/how-to-trim-nails
• “The do’s and don’ts of diabetic footwear,” Baylor College of Medicine, last accessed on September 12, 2025, https://blogs.bcm.edu/2023/10/04/the-dos-and-donts-of-diabetic-footwear/#:~:text=Diabetic%20individuals%20may%20not%20feel,associate%20with%20the%20Michael%20E