Can diabetic foot ulcers be prevented?

An ulcer may begin with a blister, cut, pressure spot, burn, or crack that is missed or repeatedly rubbed. Diabetes can affect sensation, so a person may not feel an injury. It can also affect circulation and healing. Peripheral Neuropathy is one condition that can reduce protective feeling in the feet, while Type 2 Diabetes is associated with the blood glucose care that supports foot health.

Prevention is a routine rather than a single check. The aim is to notice skin changes early, remove pressure, protect the foot from heat and sharp objects, and have regular professional reviews.

Look at the tops, soles, heels, and spaces between the toes each day; use a mirror or ask for help if needed. Check for redness, swelling, warmth, cracks, blisters, drainage, or a change in shape. Wash gently, dry carefully, and moisturise dry skin without putting cream between the toes. Wear well-fitting shoes and clean socks, and check inside shoes before putting them on.

Do not walk barefoot, cut corns yourself, use strong chemical corn treatments, or put hot water bottles against numb feet. Keep diabetes appointments and ask for a foot examination and advice about nail care.

Contact a healthcare professional promptly for any open area, blister that is not improving, drainage, spreading redness, swelling, warmth, new odour, or skin turning dark. Urgent assessment is needed for fever, severe pain, rapidly changing skin, or feeling unwell. Do not wait for pain if sensation is reduced; a painless wound can still worsen.

Ask how often your feet should be checked, whether sensation and circulation need assessment, which shoes are suitable, and how to manage a blister or cut. Ask who to contact outside routine appointments and whether a podiatry review is appropriate for your foot shape, nails, or previous wounds.