Taking care of your feet

Top tips for healthy feet

• Have a quality foot check by an appropriately trained person at least once a year. You should always take your shoes and socks off so that they can do a proper assessment.
• Don’t be self-conscious about your feet.
• After the foot check, ask what your risk is of developing foot problems.
• If you are at increased risk of foot problems, make sure you have been referred to a foot protection service or specialist podiatrist for expert input.
• Check your feet every day - look for any signs of redness, pain, build-up of hard skin or changes in the shape of your feet. Find out more about how to spot foot problems.
• Be aware of any loss of feeling in your feet because you may not feel if you hurt your feet.
• Ask someone at home to monitor the feeling in your feet by doing the quick, easy Touch the toes test. This can be done between appointments and if there are any changes go to your GP. The Touch the Toes test is not a substitute for the annual foot review.
• Look after your toenails.
• Do not use corn-removing plasters or blades as these can damage healthy skin.
• Use moisturising cream every day and wear well-fitting shoes that protect and support your feet.
• Always examine the inside of your shoes for sharp objects or stones before putting them on and replace ruffled innersole linings. Avoid socks, stockings or tights with wrinkles or prominent seams.
• Garters and stockings or socks with elastic tops should also be avoided because they may restrict the circulation. Never wear socks with darned areas or holes.
• Know who to call at the first sign of any new foot problem.

Steps you can take to prevent problems happening

• If you smoke, get support to help you stop because smoking affects blood circulation and so increases your risk of developing serious foot problems.
• Keep good control of your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Eat a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat, sugar and salt, and high in fruit and vegetables.
• Make sure you attend your annual foot check.
• Know your risk of developing foot problems and if you have been referred to a foot specialist for expert advice.
• Attend all your appointments.
• Follow our top tips for healthy feet.
• Make sure that your socks and shoes are comfortable and fit well.
• If you are able to, take regular physical activity, for example a brisk walk each day.
• Contact your GP or diabetes team if you have any concerns about your feet - don’t wait until your annual foot review.

Find out more about problem feet – and what to do.