Diabetic foot care is podological care for the skin and nails of people living with diabetes. It starts with a risk assessment and runs alongside the follow-up you already have with your doctor. Because diabetes can gradually affect sensation and circulation in the feet, a small patch of hard skin or a nail edge pressing into the toe can go unnoticed. Regular podological care aims to spot changes like these early and help you keep your feet healthy.
Diagnosing, monitoring and treating diabetes is your doctor’s role. As podologists, our part is care, observation and guidance, and we refer you to endocrinology, dermatology, vascular surgery or another relevant specialty whenever we think it is needed.
Who should have diabetic foot care?
- Anyone with type 1 or type 2 diabetes
- People who notice numbness, tingling or reduced feeling in their feet
- Those who find it hard to care for their own feet because of eyesight, flexibility or balance
- People with diabetes who develop corns, calluses or dry skin on their soles
- Anyone with thickened nails or nails that tend to dig in
- People whose doctor has recommended regular foot checks
How a diabetic foot care appointment works
- Risk assessment: We ask how long you have had diabetes, how it is managed and who follows you medically. We then check skin integrity, color, temperature, nails and foot shape, and take a look at your shoes.
- Basic sensation screening: A fine nylon filament, known as a monofilament, is used to check light-touch sensation at set points on the sole. This is a basic screening, not a diagnostic test; if reduced sensation is suspected, we note the findings so you can share them with your doctor.
- Hygiene and sterile preparation: Your feet are cleaned with an antiseptic solution, and sterile instruments and single-use materials are used. We do not soak the feet, as soaking can soften the skin and make it more vulnerable.
- Careful hands-on care: Nails are shortened in a controlled way and thinned if needed, while corns and calluses are reduced gently without touching healthy tissue. Protective padding may be suggested for areas under pressure.
- Guidance and follow-up plan: We go over daily foot checks and suitable socks and shoes, and agree on a date for your next visit.
Everyday foot care at home
- Check your feet every day in good light, soles included; use a mirror or ask someone to help if needed.
- Never cut or scrape corns yourself, and do not use corn plasters or acid-based products without advice.
- Wash your feet in lukewarm water, testing the temperature with your elbow or a thermometer rather than your feet.
- Dry thoroughly between your toes and apply moisturizer only to the heels and soles.
- Avoid walking barefoot, and run your hand inside your shoes before putting them on.
- Choose seam-free, non-restrictive socks and roomy shoes that do not rub.
When should you see a doctor?
If you have diabetes and notice any of the following, it is important to contact your doctor without delay:
- An open wound, a blister or a cut that has not closed within a few days
- Redness, swelling, warmth or discharge anywhere on the foot
- A noticeable change in the color of the skin or toes
- New numbness, burning or loss of feeling
- Foot problems together with unexplained changes in your blood sugar
In these cases podological care is postponed and your doctor’s assessment comes first. We then update your care plan together, in line with your doctor’s recommendations.
