Foot Care

If you have diabetes, it is very important to take good care of your feet. Poorly controlled diabetes can affect your nerves and your circulation which can result in foot problems. Prevention and daily foot care inspection are key components in maintaining good foot health for someone with diabetes.

Top Ten Daily Foot Care Tips

1.  Inspect your feet daily.  Look for any cuts, cracks in your skin, ingrown toenails, blisters, discoloured or infected areas, callouses, corns or warts. 

2.  Wash your feet in warm (not hot) water using a mild soap.  Don't soak your feet as this can dry your skin.

3.  Dry your feet well after washing, especially between your toes. 

4.  Apply lotion to your feet to prevent dry skin.  Do not put lotion between your toes, as this is an ideal location for fungus or infections. 

5.  Clean any minor cuts or scratches with mild soap and water and cover with a dry dressing to your foot or legs. 

6.  Wear clean socks made of breathable materials (ie. cotton) that are not too tight around your legs. 

7.  Trim your toenails straight across and file any sharp edges.  This will help prevent ingrown toenails.

8.  Buy shoes at the end of the day when your feet are the biggest.  Feet often swell during the day.

9.  Do not go barefoot.  Wear shoes at all times to prevent injury to your feet. 

10.  Wear socks at night if your feet feel cold.  Do not use hot water bottles or heating pads as they may burn you. 

When to see your Doctor or Nurse Practitioner

• If you have any signs of infection (redness, drainage, heat).
• If you have corns, callouses, warts or in-grown toenails.  Do not try to treat yourself.
• If you have swelling, warmth, redness or pain in your legs or feet.
• If you have pain, numbness, tingling or burning in your feet.
• If you have any discoloured areas on your feet.
• For a foot sensation test at least once a year. 

For More Information

Consult your primary care provider, diabetes education team, or contact a foot care provider.

The following chart identifies local foot care providers.  Please note that service fees apply to most services listed.  If there are any edits required for this list, please contact us at [email protected] (Date of last full edit: September 2024)

Click here to print a pdf copy of the chart