5 Daily Foot Checks Every Diabetic Should Do

When you live with diabetes, your feet need a quick daily inspection — reduced sensation means injuries can go unnoticed. Here is a one-minute routine: 1) Look at the skin for cuts, blisters, redness or swelling, using a mirror for the soles if needed. 2) Check between the toes for moisture, cracks or signs of fungus. 3) Inspect your nails for discolouration, thickening or ingrown edges. 4) Feel the temperature — a warm spot can be an early sign of inflammation. 5) Touch test — note any new numbness or tingling. If you spot an open wound, redness that does not fade, or any sign of infection, contact your doctor promptly. And remember: a professional foot assessment every few weeks catches what daily checks can miss.

Why Seniors Should Not Cut Their Own Toenails

It sounds simple, but cutting toenails becomes genuinely risky with age. Reduced flexibility makes it hard to reach and see your feet clearly; nails thicken and need stronger, sharper tools; and thinner skin means a small slip can cause a wound that heals slowly — especially with diabetes or poor circulation. Badly trimmed nails also lead to ingrown toenails, one of the most common and painful problems we treat. A foot care nurse uses sterilized professional instruments, trims nails to the correct shape and length, and checks the whole foot for early signs of trouble while she is at it. If cutting your own nails has become a struggle, that is not a small inconvenience — it is the right moment to get professional help.

How to Choose Footwear That Protects Your Feet

The wrong shoes cause calluses, corns, bunion pain and falls — the right ones prevent all four. When shopping: shop in the afternoon, when feet are slightly swollen, so shoes fit at their largest; leave a thumb's width between your longest toe and the tip; choose a wide, deep toe box that lets toes lie flat; look for a firm heel counter and a sole that bends at the ball of the foot, not the middle; and prefer adjustable closures (laces or velcro) over slip-ons, which force toes to grip. For diabetic feet, seamless interiors matter — seams rub and create wounds. Replace shoes when the sole pattern wears smooth. And if you are unsure whether your current shoes fit well, bring them to your next visit: footwear assessment is part of our service.