When people think about diabetes, they often focus on blood sugar levels, diet, and exercise. But one area that doesn’t get enough attention is the feet. As a podiatrist, I can’t stress enough how important foot health is for anyone living with diabetes. The truth is, diabetes can silently damage your feet in ways that may not be noticeable until it’s too late.

Diabetes can lead to nerve damage (neuropathy), which means you may lose sensation in your feet. This makes it harder to feel cuts, blisters, or injuries. At the same time, diabetes also affects circulation, which slows down healing. Combine these two issues, and even a small blister can turn into a serious infection if it goes unnoticed. That’s why thousands of diabetics every year end up with amputations—something that could often be prevented with the right care.

So how can you keep all 10 toes while living with diabetes? Here are some key steps:

1. Check Your Feet Every Day

Look at the tops, bottoms, and between the toes. Use a mirror if needed or ask a loved one for help. Remember this phrase:
“If something doesn't look right, smell right or feel right”—don’t ignore it. Call me immediately.

2. Keep Your Feet Clean and Moisturized

Wash your feet daily with warm water (not hot, since you may not feel heat as well). Dry carefully between your toes to prevent fungal infections. Use lotion on dry areas but avoid putting it between your toes, since excess moisture can cause problems.

3. Wear Proper Shoes and Socks

Skip going barefoot, even in your own home. Shoes protect you from injuries you may not feel. Choose well-fitting shoes with cushioning, and wear socks that wick moisture and don’t bunch up. Custom diabetic shoes and insoles may be a good investment if you have risk factors like neuropathy or poor circulation.

4. Don’t Try “Bathroom Surgery”

Never cut corns or calluses yourself and don’t use over-the-counter medicated pads. They can cause burns and wounds. Always let a podiatrist handle these safely.

5. Regular Foot Exams with Your Podiatrist

Even if your feet look fine, regular check-ups are critical. I can check for circulation issues, nerve changes, and pressure spots before they become dangerous. Prevention is always better than treatment.

Emergency Care Matters

Diabetic foot emergencies can’t wait. That’s why I always offer same day appointments for any diabetic emergencies. A little redness, swelling, drainage, or an unusual smell might not seem urgent to you—but it could be the early sign of an infection that needs immediate attention.

With proper care, you can absolutely live a long, healthy life with all 10 toes intact. Your feet are too important to neglect—after all, they carry you through every step of life’s journey.