Preventing foot problems involves managing your diabetes well, controlling blood glucose levels (along with your cholesterol and blood pressure) and leading a healthy active lifestyle. Your chances of doing this will be greatly increased if you do not smoke. By adopting these measures, you can prevent or slow down any changes to the nerves and blood vessels that supply your legs and feet.

In addition, regular foot care is important from preventing the build-up of hard skin to moisturising your feet in order to keep the skin supple, as well as always wearing the right shoes and socks that fit properly.

Anyone who has diabetes should also have their feet checked regularly with a healthcare professional (Podiatrist, Nurse or Doctor) and at the very least once a year at their annual review. However, if you are at increased risk of complications, these inspections may be done more frequently.

Simple self-care measures include:

• Check your feet every day
• Clean and dress any cuts, scratches or wounds
• Always wear footwear
• Always wear shoes that fit properly
• Never sit with your feet too close to a fire
• Visit a podiatrist for corns and calluses
• Avoid using corn plasters