Diabetes

How it affects your body
How it affects your feet
     How can it affect my feet?
     What signs should I look for?
     What do the changes mean?
     What changes should I look for?
     How do I prevent foot problems?
Why is prevention important
Looking after your feet
Treating injuries and skin damage
Long term effects and advice

How it affects your feet

Diabetes - How it affects your feet


Many people with diabetes know that they have to take special care of their feet, but they perhaps don’t know why.


By understanding how your feet can change with diabetes and by learning how to spot those changes you can take positive action to keep your feet healthy.


This information is for anyone with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. It will also help you whether you have had diabetes for a few months or many years. Your family, friends or your carer may also find it useful.


This information should not replace any information your health professional gives you. However, it can help you to understand what they tell you and help you with your daily foot care.

Foot Note

Understanding how and why foot problems develop will help to you take action to prevent them.

This information explains:

  • how diabetes can affect your feet

and how you can:

  • prevent foot problems
  • keep your skin and toenails in great condition
  • choose footwear
  • look after your feet when you’re on holiday