Living with diabetes means managing more than just blood sugar. According to the CDC, about 1 in 5 people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer in their lifetime. Consistent foot care can dramatically reduce this risk, preventing infections, wounds, and more serious complications.
At South Texas Podiatry we specialize in diabetic foot care and offer expert podiatric services for patients across San Antonio. Whether you're newly managing diabetes or have lived with it for years, our San Antonio podiatrists provide personalized foot care support, helping you build daily habits, spot early signs of diabetic foot problems, and treat ulcers with proven solutions when they arise.
Your foot health plays a vital role in your long-term well being. Let’s explore 10 key habits that can help you avoid serious foot problems.
1. Inspect Your Feet Every Day
Daily foot checks are a non-negotiable part of diabetes mellitus foot care. Examine both feet closely every day, including the soles, heels, and between the toes, for any signs of injury such as cuts, cracks, blisters, swelling, or skin color changes. Use a hand mirror or ask for help if you have trouble seeing the bottoms of your feet.
Even small injuries can escalate quickly in people with diabetes because of poor circulation and reduced nerve function. Catching these issues early helps prevent serious infections, diabetic foot ulcers, and potential complications like hospitalization or amputation.
2. Wash and Dry Your Feet Properly
Wash your feet daily using lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Never use hot water; it can cause unnoticeable burns if you have diabetic neuropathy. Test the water temperature with your elbow before stepping in.
Dry your feet carefully, especially between the toes. Trapped moisture can lead to fungal infections like athlete's foot, which often go unnoticed due to reduced sensation. Gently pat dry with a clean towel instead of rubbing, which can irritate sensitive skin.
3. Moisturize. But Not Between the Toes
Dry, cracked skin is a common entry point for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. Use a diabetic-safe, fragrance-free lotion to moisturize the tops and bottoms of your feet daily, especially after bathing. This helps maintain skin integrity and reduces the chance of skin breakdown.
Do not apply lotion between your toes, as trapped moisture in these tight spaces can lead to fungal growth or bacterial infections.
4. Wear Proper Shoes Every Day
Footwear plays a critical role in preventing diabetic foot injuries. Choose shoes that provide a deep, wide toe box, full foot coverage, shock-absorbing soles, and supportive insoles. Shoes should feel snug but not tight, with ample space to prevent pressure points or friction.
When selecting footwear for diabetes mellitus foot care, avoid styles with pointed toes, high heels, or thin soles that increase your risk of injury. Always inspect new shoes for rough seams, sharp edges, or foreign objects before wearing. Break them in gradually—30 to 60 minutes a day for the first few days. Most importantly, never walk barefoot, even indoors, to avoid undetected cuts, burns, or punctures.
5. Check Inside Your Shoes
Before putting on your shoes, thoroughly inspect the insides with your hands and eyes. Feel for small objects like pebbles, uneven seams, or folds in the lining. These can easily go unnoticed but cause blisters or open wounds.
For individuals with diabetes, even slight friction or prolonged pressure from a wrinkle or object inside the shoe can break the skin and trigger a diabetic foot ulcer. Early prevention starts with this simple step.
6. Trim Toenails Safely
Trim your toenails straight across using clean, sanitized nail clippers to prevent ingrown nails. After trimming, gently file any sharp edges to avoid snagging on socks or skin.
If you have difficulty seeing your feet, thickened nails, poor circulation, or nerve damage, let a podiatrist manage your nail care. This helps reduce the risk of cuts, infections, or unnoticed injuries that can become serious complications.
7. Watch for Warning Signs
Watch closely for warning signs such as swelling, persistent redness, warmth, throbbing pain, open sores, or foul-smelling discharge. These are all potential signs of an underlying infection or diabetic foot ulcer that requires prompt medical attention.
Because foot problems and diabetes are strongly linked, even mild symptoms should not be ignored. Contact a foot specialist immediately to prevent worsening complications.
8. Choose the Right Socks
Choose soft, seamless, moisture-wicking socks made from breathable fabrics like cotton blends or bamboo. Avoid tight elastic bands or thick seams that may irritate the skin or restrict circulation. Diabetic-specific socks often offer extra padding at pressure points and help manage foot temperature.
Change your socks daily, and more often if your feet sweat, to keep them dry and reduce the risk of fungal or bacterial infections. Damp socks can create a breeding ground for germs, especially in people with reduced circulation or sensation.
9. Control Your Blood Sugar
High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and nerves, reducing oxygen and nutrient delivery to the feet. This slows wound healing and increases the risk of infection. Keeping glucose levels within your target range improves circulation, supports nerve function, and strengthens your body’s ability to recover from minor injuries.
Effective glucose control also helps prevent the formation of diabetic foot ulcers and can reduce the need for surgical or intensive treatment later on.
10. See a Foot Specialist Regularly
Routine podiatric visits are essential for monitoring changes that may otherwise go unnoticed. We recommend scheduling a diabetic foot exam at least annually, and more frequently if you’ve had previous ulcers, nerve damage, or poor circulation.
At South Texas Podiatry in San Antonio, we offer comprehensive diabetic foot assessments, including vascular and neurological screenings, custom footwear guidance, and proactive treatment plans to reduce your risk of serious complications.
Why These Tips Matter
Diabetic foot complications often develop without warning, starting from minor cuts, blisters, or dry skin. Left untreated, these issues can progress to serious infections, ulcers, and even result in amputations. Regular foot hygiene, prompt treatment of injuries, and consistent monitoring are essential to prevent complications and protect mobility.
Proactive diabetic foot care helps prevent infections, ulcers, and long-term damage. It plays a key role in maintaining mobility and overall health.
Take Action Today to Protect Your Feet
Daily care can prevent the most serious diabetic foot complications. But you're not in this alone. At South Texas Podiatry, Dr. Eddie Davis, Dr. Silas Espino, and Dr. Bryan Sagray partner with diabetic patients across San Antonio to keep feet healthy, detect problems early, and provide personalized treatment.
If you're concerned about your foot health—or just want to stay ahead—schedule a foot exam today. Call (210) 490-3668 or visit us online to book your appointment.
Book An Appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is diabetic foot care?
It’s the daily practice of keeping your feet clean, protected, and monitored to avoid complications caused by diabetes.
What are common diabetic foot symptoms?
Look for numbness, tingling, swelling, redness, or skin breakdown. These are early signs of potential problems.
When should I see a foot specialist?
If you notice a cut, sore, or color change—or if it’s been over a year since your last foot exam—schedule an appointment.
Can diabetic foot ulcers be treated?
Yes. With early intervention and professional care, most ulcers can be healed. Don’t delay if you see signs of a wound.
Is foot care really necessary if I feel fine?
Yes. Diabetic nerve damage can prevent you from feeling pain. That’s why visual inspection is so important.
