Why Diabetic Foot Care Is Essential: Preventing Complications Before They Start

January 28, 2025

Diabetes can influence many health aspects, but care for one’s feet happens to be one of the most overlooked areas. According to Dr. Anthony Caristo, Dr. Jason Kline, and Dr. Ernest Troisi, the Delaware Foot and Ankle Group in Newark, DE, diabetics are simply at a higher risk for foot complications. These complications include ulcers, infections, and even amputation. That is why proper foot care is essential for diabetics.


Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetic foot care, which helps reduce serious complication risks, is critical to managing diabetes because proactively protecting your feet prevents pain/discomfort and helps maintain the quality of life you seek. 


Diabetes can lead to two major issues affecting foot health. These issues can turn minor injuries into serious complications if not addressed promptly.


  • Neuropathy (a.k.a., nerve damage) reduces foot sensation, making it more challenging to recognize cuts or injuries to the feet.
  • Poor circulation simply causes you to heal slower than expected, which elevates the risk of infection.


 In addition, diabetes can cause skin dryness and cracking, which creates entry points for bacteria.


Common Diabetic Foot Complications

Diabetic foot care helps prevent:


  • Cuts or blisters that can quickly become infected due to slower healing. Severe infections can lead to tissue damage or amputation.
  • Open sores may arise from friction, pressure points, or simply from injuries not detected. Without treatment, a risk of infection may even lead to surgery.
  • Uncontrolled infections or severe circulation issues can result in the need for amputation to save a patient’s life.
  • Charcot Foot, with its weakened foot bones, refers to a medical condition in which these bones may fracture or dislocate, causing a deformity.


Preventive Measures for Diabetic Foot Care

As most diabetics know, washing feet daily with warm water and mild soap is critical. Be sure to dry your feet completely. Don’t forget to dry between the toes. Use moisturizers to prevent cracking. Other suggestions include:


  • Check each foot daily for cuts/swelling/blisters/redness or other abnormalities. Ask for help if you need it.
  • Avoid walking barefoot, even indoors.
  • Cut toenails straight, as this is the best way to prevent ingrown toenails. Seek professional help if you need it.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that fit well, as they protect your feet.
  • Maintain stable blood sugar helps improve circulation/reduce complications.
  • Schedule routine check-ups with a specialist of Delaware Foot and Ankle Group to monitor foot health and address any issues early.


For more information about our diabetic foot care options, contact Dr. Caristo, Dr. Kline and Dr. Troisi, and the Delaware Foot and Ankle Group in Newark, DE, at 302-834-3575 or online.