What are the risk factors for diabetic foot ulcer?

High blood glucose over time can affect nerves and blood vessels. Peripheral neuropathy may reduce the ability to feel heat, pressure, a blister or a small cut, so an injury can go unnoticed. Poor circulation can slow delivery of oxygen and healing materials to the skin.

Risk is also higher after a previous ulcer or amputation, with thickened nails, calluses, cracked skin, a change in foot shape, unsuitable shoes, walking barefoot, smoking, or an infection. Vision or movement problems may make daily foot checks harder. Having a risk factor does not mean an ulcer will develop.

Check both feet each day, including the soles and between the toes, for redness, swelling, warmth, cracks, blisters or drainage. Use a mirror or ask someone to help if you cannot see clearly. Wash gently, dry carefully, moisturise dry skin but keep cream between the toes, and wear well-fitting shoes and clean socks.

Do not cut corns or calluses yourself or use chemical corn treatments. Arrange regular diabetes and foot reviews, and ask about a safe nail-care plan. Better blood glucose control, stopping smoking and treating blood pressure or cholesterol can support circulation and healing.

Contact a healthcare professional promptly for any open area, blister, cut, colour change, swelling, warmth, pus, bad smell or new pain in a diabetic foot, even if sensation is reduced. Seek urgent care for spreading redness, fever, severe swelling, blackened skin, confusion or feeling acutely unwell. Do not wait for an injury to become painful.

Ask: How often should my feet be examined? Do I have reduced sensation or circulation? Which shoes are suitable for me? What should I do if I find a blister or wound? Do I need a podiatry referral or a personalised foot-care plan?