Many adults have swelling in their feet or legs. They think it’s no big deal and often go about their day ignoring it. But this is a HUGE mistake. Because swelling means there’s blood and fluid getting stuck. And when your legs are clogged up. This is particularly prevalent in people with diabetes. 

If you have diabetes, your feet might not receive enough blood. Over time, this can cause peripheral neuropathy, which is a loss of feeling. You may not notice foot injuries because you don’t feel them, and the condition can also prevent foot injuries from healing normally. 

1. Check your feet every day  

Look at your feet, including the soles, when you put your socks on in the morning and take them off at the end of the day. If you have limited mobility or limited vision, you could ask someone to do it for you or use magnifying mirrors.  

See your doctor or podiatrist if: 

• The skin on your foot changes color
• You have swelling or redness in your foot around an injury or blister
• You notice discharge seeping from a wound
• You can’t feel any sensation when you or someone else touches your toes 

2. Check that your shoes fit properly 

Poor-fitting shoes can cause numerous foot problems, including corns, calluses, nail problems, and ulcers. Choose shoes that: 

• Have a low or flat heel
• Are wide fitting (but not so wide that your feet slide around)
• Have a rounded, deep toe area  

A podiatrist will be able to recommend suitable styles if you aren’t sure what kind of shoe to buy. If your shoes, socks, or stockings become damaged, replace them.  

3. Try to avoid sitting or standing with your legs crossed 

This can reduce blood flow to your lower legs and feet. 

4. Cut your toenails regularly 

Cut your toenails straight across, not down the side. Cut them with nail clippers, then use an emery board to smooth the corners. Take your time when cutting your nails to avoid nicking your skin.  

5. Get prompt treatment for hard skin or corns 

Don’t try to treat corns or hard skin yourself with plasters or blades because these can injure your skin. See a podiatrist instead.  

6. Do not walk barefoot 

Wear well-fitting shoes and socks whenever possible. Going barefoot increases your risk of cuts and grazes, which may become infected. It’s especially important to avoid going barefoot when out of doors. 

7. Keep your feet clean 

Wash your feet daily using warm water and gentle soap. Avoid soaking your feet because prolonged contact with water can make your skin softer and more vulnerable to injury.  

8. Don’t use your feet to test the temperature of water  

For example, don’t dip your big toe into a bath of water to check the temperature. If the water is extremely hot, you may burn the skin of your feet without noticing.  

9. Give up smoking 

Smoking impairs circulation, especially if you have diabetes, and can make leg and foot problems worse. Don’t be discouraged if it takes you a few attempts to quit; this is normal. 

10. Attend your annual diabetes review 

Your doctor or diabetes nurse should invite you for a diabetes review at least once per year. During your review, they should check your feet for potential problems and advise you how best to treat them.  

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Trusted Resources 

Diabetes Freedom

Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy

Diabetes Solution Kit

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Disclaimer of Medical Advice:

You understand that the blog posts and comments to such blog posts (whether posted by us, our agents, or bloggers, or by users) do not constitute medical advice or recommendation of any kind, and you should not rely on any information contained in such posts or comments to replace consultations with your qualified health care professionals to meet your individual needs.