A simple daily routine for feet and skin

Check your feet every day

Choose a regular time and look at the tops, soles, heels, sides and spaces between the toes. Use a mirror or ask someone for help if any area is difficult to see.

Look for:

• cuts, cracks or blisters;
• redness, swelling or warmth;
• colour or temperature changes;
• calluses or corns;
• discharge, odour or signs of infection;
• ingrown or damaged nails;
• new tingling, burning, pain or loss of feeling.

Contact a healthcare professional promptly for a wound, blister, colour change, swelling, infection, or other change that concerns you. Do not wait for pain: reduced sensation can make a serious problem feel minor.

Wash gently and dry carefully

Use comfortably warm water rather than very hot water. If sensation is reduced, check the temperature safely instead of relying on your feet. Wash gently and dry carefully, especially between the toes.

Avoid soaking for long periods unless your healthcare professional has specifically advised it. Do not use heating pads, hot-water bottles or direct heaters on your feet because reduced sensation can make burns harder to notice.

Moisturise dry skin

A suitable moisturiser can help reduce dry, cracked skin. Apply it to dry areas as directed, but avoid leaving cream between the toes unless a healthcare professional or product instruction specifically says otherwise. Stop using a product and seek advice if it causes irritation.

Foot-care products support a routine; they do not treat ulcers, infection or poor circulation.

Choose socks and shoes thoughtfully

Socks should fit without folds or restrictive bands. Check shoes for stones, rough seams or damaged lining before putting them on. Shoes should have enough room for the toes and should not rub.

Do not cut corns or calluses yourself or use strong chemical removers without professional advice. A podiatrist or appropriately trained foot-care professional can assess them safely.

Keep professional checks in the plan

Daily self-checks do not replace professional foot examinations. Ask your diabetes team how often your feet should be assessed, particularly if you have neuropathy, circulation problems, a previous ulcer, kidney disease or difficulty seeing or reaching your feet.