Diabetic? Here Are 5 Foot Care Habits You Should Never Skip

If you’re living with diabetes, you’ve likely heard that you need to be careful with your feet. It’s a serious topic because the stakes are incredibly high. Many people fear losing a limb even more than they fear death, yet many don’t realize how much power they have to prevent complications.

The truth is that up to 80% of all diabetes-related amputations are completely preventable with the right daily routine (CDC 2024). At Artisan Podiatry, Dr. Shazia Amar and our team are dedicated to helping our Brooklyn neighbors stay active and healthy by catching small issues before they become big problems.

Why your feet need extra attention

Diabetes can lead to a condition called neuropathy, which is nerve damage that can cause you to lose feeling in your feet. When you can’t feel pain, your body’s natural alarm system is silenced. You might step on a small object or develop a blister and never even notice it.

According to PubMed (2025), up to 50% of these nerve damage cases don’t show any symptoms at all in the early stages. This means you can’t rely on how your feet “feel” to know if they’re healthy. That’s why professional care for foot problems is so essential for anyone managing diabetes.

5 essential habits for healthy feet

To keep your feet safe, follow a daily routine that includes visual inspections, safe washing, proper moisturizing, protective footwear, and professional grooming. Here’s how to master each one.

1. Perform a 60-second mirror check: Because you might not feel a cut or a bruise, you have to see it. Every night, use a hand mirror to look at the tops, bottoms, and between your toes. If you see any redness, swelling, or broken skin, it’s time to give us a call.
2. Use the lukewarm wash protocol: Wash your feet daily with mild soap, but don’t soak them, as this can dry out your skin. Most importantly, always test the water with your elbow first. If the water’s too hot, you could suffer a severe burn without even realizing it.
3. Moisturize the right way: Dry skin can crack and lead to infections. Apply a fragrance-free lotion to the tops and bottoms of your feet every day. However, never put lotion between your toes, as that extra moisture can cause fungal growth.
4. Make your home a “No Barefoot Zone”: Never walk barefoot, even inside your own house. A supportive pair of slippers and seamless socks protect you from stubbing a toe or stepping on something sharp that could cause an injury you won’t feel.
5. Delegate your grooming to a pro: Don’t try to perform “bathroom surgery” on your own calluses or corns. Trimming your own toenails too short can lead to ingrown nails and infections. Let Dr. Amar handle the maintenance with sterile, professional tools to keep your skin intact.

Partner with us for long-term health

Managing your foot health doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By turning these five habits into a daily routine, you’re taking the most important steps toward protecting your independence and mobility. We’re here to support you with regular exams and specialized care tailored to your needs.

Don’t wait for a small sore to become a major concern. If you’ve noticed any changes in your feet or if it’s been a while since your last check-up, we’re ready to help. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Amar at Artisan Podiatry today to keep your feet healthy and strong.