Foot care for diabetics
Why neuropathy plus reduced circulation creates the diabetic foot ulcer pattern, and a 5-minute daily check that prevents most of it.
15 of every 100 diabetics develop a foot ulcer in their lifetime. Almost all of that is preventable with a 5-minute daily ritual.
Why feet are vulnerable
- Neuropathy — nerve damage means you stop feeling small injuries
- Reduced circulation — cuts heal slowly, infections take hold
Daily 5-min check
- Inspect tops, sides, soles, between toes
- Look for cuts, blisters, redness, dry cracking
- Wash with lukewarm water, dry between toes thoroughly
- Moisturise soles and tops, NOT between toes
- Trim nails straight across
Footwear
Never barefoot. Check shoes for pebbles. Properly fitted — thumb's width between toes and shoe end.