Feet

Diabetes can hurt your feet in 2 ways:

• High blood sugar damages your nerves, including those in your feet. With damaged nerves, you might not feel pain, heat, or cold. A sore or cut may get worse and become infected without your feeling it
• Diabetes reduces blood flow to your feet. When your feet don’t get enough blood, infections may not heal

Protect your feet by taking extra care of them:

• Have a comprehensive foot exam every year
• Wash your feet in warm water every day and dry them well
• Never go barefoot
• Wear shoes and socks that fit well
• Inspect your feet every day for cuts, bruises, or swelling
• Ask your diabetes care team how you should care for your toenails
• Call your diabetes care team if you injure your feet in any way
• Make sure your diabetes care team checks your feet at every visit