5 Steps for Performing Your Own Diabetic Foot Check

Living well with diabetes means more than managing your blood sugar. It also means taking good care of your feet. Diabetes, even when well-controlled, increases the risk for lower limb complications. In fact, diabetes is responsible for more than 150,000 lower limb amputations in the United States each year, and that number is rising. 

Led by board-certified podiatrist Andrew McCall, DPM, FACFAS, the team at Alpine Foot and Ankle works closely with our patients to take the absolute best care of their feet. In addition to regular checkups with our team, and prompt care when issues such as ulcers arise, patients should also perform regular checks at home. 

Why does diabetes raise foot complication risks?

Over time, diabetes can lead to poor circulation and neuropathy, or nerve damage. This makes you vulnerable to ulcers, infections, and other serious complications. 

You may not feel a scrape or cut on your foot, which is why it’s crucial to perform thorough visual checks regularly. When you have diabetes, a small cut can quickly progress to a larger, slow-healing open wound, putting you at an elevated risk of infection. 

It’s vital to come in to see the team at Alpine Foot and Ankle right away if you notice open sores. Here’s our five-step guide to checking your feet regularly at home.

Step 1: Incorporate foot inspections into your regular routine

Regular foot self-checks must become part of your routine when living with diabetes. Set aside time to look for any cuts, blisters, red spots, or swelling on your feet. Because nerve damage can reduce your ability to feel pain, it’s important to visually check for injuries. Use a mirror to view the soles of your feet, or ask a family member to help if it’s difficult for you to see.

During your inspection, don’t forget to check between your toes. Moisture or fungal infections can hide in these areas, leading to issues like athlete’s foot or ulcers. Catching these signs early helps prevent infection and more serious complications.

Step 2: Check for changes in skin color or temperature

For people with diabetes, changes in skin color or temperature often signal circulation problems or infections. If you notice redness, paleness, or discoloration, it could be a sign of poor blood flow. 

Likewise, warmth or heat in an area might indicate there’s an infection or inflammation, while cold feet could be a sign of poor circulation. It’s wise to get in the habit of regularly feeling your feet with your hands. If you notice any unusual coldness, warmth, or major changes in color, contact Dr. McCall as soon as possible.

Step 3: Check for calluses and corns

You’re more prone to developing calluses and corns when living with diabetes, and this can lead to pressure points and breakdowns in the skin if left untreated. During your foot check, take a close look at any areas that seem rough or thick. 

However, it’s best that you avoid attempting to treat calluses or corns on your own, as improper technique can cause cuts or infections. Instead, make an appointment with Dr. McCall. 

Step 4: Trim your toenails properly

Regular trimming is important for preventing ingrown toenails. Be sure to cut straight across — avoid rounding the edges, as doing so increases the risk of ingrown nails. Use clean, sharp clippers and avoid cutting the nails too short so you don’t expose the nail bed to bacteria.

Dr. McCall can show you the proper technique so you can trim your toenails safely at home. If you have poor vision or limited mobility, Dr. McCall may recommend coming in regularly to have your nails professionally trimmed. 

Step 5: Monitor your sensation

Finally, regularly check for changes in sensation in your feet. Neuropathy can cause a loss of feeling, so it’s important to monitor whether your feet feel numb, tingly, or unusually sensitive. Use your hands to gently press on different areas of your feet to test for sensation. If you notice any loss of feeling, contact us for further evaluation.

Prioritizing diabetic foot care

Regular diabetic foot checks in our office and self-checks at home can go a long way in preventing serious complications. You’re in highly capable hands when you choose to partner with Alpine Foot and Ankle for exceptional diabetic foot care in Idaho Falls, Idaho. 

Contact us to schedule an appointment today, and let’s work together to help you live well with diabetes and keep your feet as healthy as possible.