Special Foot Care for People with Diabetes
If you’re living with diabetes, you already know how important it is to keep your blood sugar levels under control. But did you know your feet need special attention too? 👣 Diabetes can cause nerve damage and poor circulation, which makes even small foot problems potentially serious.
At Becky’s Medical Foot Care in Ottawa, we’ve seen firsthand how proper diabetic foot care can prevent complications and help people stay safe, mobile, and independent. Let’s dive into why diabetic foot care matters and what you can do to protect yourself.
⚠️ Why Diabetes Affects the Feet
Diabetes can affect your feet in two major ways:
Nerve Damage (Neuropathy):
This can cause numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in your feet. Without feeling pain, you might not notice cuts, blisters, or sores.Poor Circulation:
Reduced blood flow means wounds heal more slowly. Even a tiny blister can turn into a dangerous ulcer if not treated properly.
👉 In severe cases, untreated sores can lead to infection or even amputation. That’s why daily foot care and regular check-ins with a foot care nurse are so important.
👀 Daily Foot Checks
Make it a habit to check your feet every day. Look for:
Cuts, scratches, or blisters 🩹
Redness, swelling, or signs of infection
Ingrown toenails or thick, infected nails
Dry, cracked skin that could split open
If bending down is difficult, try using a mirror or ask a loved one to help.
👟 The Right Shoes for Diabetic Feet
Wearing the wrong shoes can create pressure points, blisters, or sores. Diabetic-friendly shoes and socks can go a long way in preventing problems.
Shoe tips:
Always wear shoes that fit well (never too tight or too loose).
Avoid high heels or pointed toes.
Choose breathable materials like leather or canvas.
Look for cushioned soles with good grip.
Sock tips:
Wear soft, seamless socks.
Avoid tight elastic that can restrict circulation.
Change socks daily to keep feet clean and dry.
🧴 Moisturize & Protect
Dry skin can easily crack and allow infections to enter. Apply unscented moisturizer to the tops and bottoms of your feet, but never between your toes (moisture there can cause fungal infections).
👩⚕️ Regular Professional Foot Care
Even if you do everything right at home, professional diabetic foot care is essential. In Ottawa, our foot care nurses help by:
Safely trimming toenails (to prevent ingrown nails)
Gently reducing corns and calluses
Checking circulation, skin health, and signs of infection
Teaching you how to care for your feet daily
Many of our diabetic clients prefer in-home foot care visits for comfort and convenience—we bring the care directly to you.
✅ When to See a Doctor Immediately
Call your healthcare provider if you notice:
A sore or blister that isn’t healing
Signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling, pus)
Sudden numbness or severe pain
Skin color changes in your feet or toes
Don’t wait—early care prevents serious complications.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Living with diabetes doesn’t have to mean living with foot problems. With daily care, the right footwear, and support from a professional, you can keep your feet healthy and strong.
At Becky’s Medical Foot Care, we specialize in diabetic foot care in Ottawa, offering both in-home and clinic visits. Our goal is simple: to help you stay safe, mobile, and independent—one step at a time.
🩸 Remember: your feet deserve the same care and attention as the rest of your health. Protect them today, and they’ll protect you tomorrow.
