Why Are Diabetic Foot Checks Important for Your Health?
Updated: Aug 3
If you have diabetes, you may have heard that taking care of your feet is crucial. But why are diabetic foot checks such a significant part of diabetes management?
The straightforward answer is that diabetes can harm the nerves and blood vessels in your feet. This damage makes it harder to notice injuries and slows down the healing process for wounds. Regular foot checks can help catch problems early, often before they escalate into serious issues.
Most foot complications related to diabetes are preventable when identified and treated promptly. Whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, understanding the importance of foot checks can significantly protect your long-term foot health.
In this guide, I will explain why diabetic foot checks are essential, what happens during a foot examination, and how you can care for your feet between appointments.
Why Does Diabetes Affect the Feet?
Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage both the nerves and blood vessels that supply the feet.
This may lead to two common complications:
Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage caused by diabetes.
It may reduce your ability to feel:
Pain
Heat
Cold
Pressure
Injuries
This means you could develop a blister, cut, or ulcer without realising it.
Poor Circulation
Diabetes can also reduce blood flow to the feet.
Reduced circulation may:
Slow wound healing
Increase the risk of infection
Make existing foot problems more difficult to treat
Not everyone with diabetes develops these complications, but regular foot checks help identify them early.
Why Are Diabetic Foot Checks So Important?
Many serious diabetic foot complications begin with a small problem.
For example:
A blister from new shoes
A small cut
Cracked skin
An ingrown toenail
For someone without diabetes, these problems often heal quickly.
However, if sensation is reduced or circulation is poor, minor injuries can worsen without being noticed.
Regular foot checks help identify these issues before they progress.
What Happens During a Diabetic Foot Check?
A diabetic foot assessment is quick, painless, and designed to assess your overall foot health.
A podiatrist or other healthcare professional may check:
Your Skin
They will look for:
Your Nails
Your toenails will be examined for:
Thickening
Ingrown toenails
Trauma
Sensation
Your ability to feel pressure and touch is usually tested using a small nylon filament called a 10g monofilament.
A tuning fork may also be used to assess vibration sensation, and a sharp/blunt test may be performed.
Circulation
The healthcare professional may assess circulation by:
Feeling and listening to the pulses in your feet
Looking at skin colour
Checking skin temperature
Assessing capillary refill
In some cases, further vascular tests may be recommended.
Foot Shape
They may also look for:
Bunions
Claw toes
Hammer toes
Areas of increased pressure
Changes in foot structure
These factors may increase the risk of ulcers developing.
How Often Should You Have a Diabetic Foot Check?
In the UK, everyone with diabetes should have a comprehensive foot assessment at least once a year as part of their routine diabetes care.
Some people may require more frequent reviews if they are considered to be at higher risk.
Your healthcare professional will advise how often you should be seen based on your individual risk assessment.
Can I Check My Feet Myself?
Absolutely.
Daily self-checks are one of the most important things you can do.
Each day, look for:
Cuts
Blisters
Redness
Swelling
Cracks
Changes in skin colour
New pain
Fluid or discharge
If you struggle to see the soles of your feet, using a mirror or asking someone to help can make checking easier.
Diabetes and Foot Care: Why Looking After Your Feet is so Important
Tips for Looking After Diabetic Feet
Caring for your feet doesn't need to be complicated.
Simple habits can make a big difference.
Wash and Dry Your Feet Daily
Wash your feet using warm (not hot) water and dry carefully, especially between the toes.
Applying a suitable foot cream can help prevent dry, cracked skin. Avoid applying cream between the toes, as excessive moisture may encourage fungal infections.
Wear Well-Fitting Footwear
Poorly fitting shoes are one of the most common causes of foot injuries. Choose supportive footwear that fits well and doesn't rub.
Never Walk Barefoot
Even small injuries can become problematic if they go unnoticed. Supportive footwear should be worn both indoors and outdoors where appropriate.
Cut Toenails Carefully
Trim toenails straight across and avoid cutting into the corners. If you're unable to do this safely, a podiatrist can help.
When Should You Seek Urgent Medical Advice?
Contact your GP, diabetes team, or podiatrist promptly if you notice:
An ulcer
A cut that isn't healing
Increasing redness
Swelling
Pus or discharge
Blackened skin
Sudden pain
A hot, swollen foot
Early treatment is extremely important.
Final Thoughts on Diabetic Foot Health
Diabetic foot checks are a vital part of managing diabetes and protecting your long-term foot health.
Regular assessments help identify changes in sensation, circulation, and skin health before they develop into more serious complications. Combined with daily self-checks, appropriate footwear, and good foot care, they play a crucial role in reducing the risk of ulcers and other diabetes-related foot problems.
If you have diabetes and haven't had your annual foot check, or if you've noticed any changes to your feet, arranging an assessment with a healthcare professional is an important step towards keeping your feet healthy.
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