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.

Online Medical Reviewer: Lalitha Kadali

Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Sara Mauldin FNP

Date Last Reviewed: 01/01/2025

© 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
Eating Out When You Have Diabetes

Eating right is an important part of keeping your blood sugar in target range. Learn how to make healthy choices when you eat out.

Read article
Diabetes
Checking Ketones

Here are images showing how to treat high blood sugar when you have diabetes.

Read article
Diabetes
Diabetes: Ways to Take Medicine

A helpful look at the different ways to take diabetes medicine.

Read article
Diabetes
Exercise to Manage Your Blood Sugar

Daily exercise can lower your blood sugar level, help you control your weight, and improve your circulation, blood pressure, and heart health. It can also give you more energy, make you stronger, and help relieve stress.