Management

Inspecting Your Feet (Diabetes)

Choose a preferred language


Step-by-Step

  1. Hands washing feet in water with cloth.

    Wash your feet with warm water and mild soap.

  2. Hands drying feet with towel.

    Gently pat your feet dry. Don’t rub.

  3. Both feet, with hand touching top of foot.

    Check the tops of your feet for problems.

  4. Hands spreading toes apart on one foot.

    Look for sores between your toes, like corns.

  5. Fingers beginning to touch the edges of each toenail on one foot.

    Check for ingrown toenails and cracked nails.

  6. Hands touching inner and outer edges of feet.

    Check the sides for things like calluses.

  7. Bottom of foot reflecting in handheld mirror.

    Use a mirror to look at hard-to-see areas.

  8. Bottom of foot, with hand touching heel of foot.

    Check your soles for blisters and sores.

  9. Piece of paper with writing and image of feet, with hand drawing circle on one foot.

    Write down any problems to tell your doctor.

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Related Articles
Read article
Diabetes
How to Check Your Blood Sugar

Monitoring the level of sugar (glucose) in your blood is the key to controlling your diabetes. To be sure your glucose and insulin are in balance, check your blood sugar regularly. You can check your blood sugar level by using a blood glucose meter. Here's how.

Read article
Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes: Getting Active

Activity can help you control your weight, strengthen your body, and feel healthy. It also helps lower your risk of heart disease. Your healthcare team can help you find ways to increase your activity and exercise safely.

Read article
Diabetes
Before You Start Your Diabetes Exercise Plan

Fitness has a special role for people who have diabetes. Being fit means becoming healthier by adding activity to your day. Here's what you need to know about getting started.

Read article
Diabetes
Diabetes: Tracking Your Fitness Progress

Tracking your fitness progress can help you improve your long-term health. Seeing how far you've come may motivate you to achieve more. Your healthcare provider can also use a record of any progress to help plan your treatment.

Powered by

WebMD Ignite

Copyright © 2025 WebMD Ignite except where otherwise noted.

About

Terms of Use

Privacy Policy

Disclaimer

NCQA Certified
URAC Certified