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Health condition

Diabetic foot checks

Diabetes can quietly damage the nerves and circulation in the feet, so an annual structured foot check - and fast action on any wound - prevents ulcers and amputations.

Key points

What matters most, at a glance.

The essentials in plain English - symptoms, when to seek help, who to see and what treatment looks like.

  • Everyone with diabetes should have a foot check at least once a year

  • The check tests sensation (monofilament), pulses, skin condition and deformity

  • Any new ulcer, redness, swelling or colour change is an emergency - seek help the same day

  • Daily self-checks and well-fitting footwear are the core of prevention

  • Higher-risk feet are referred to a podiatrist or specialist diabetic foot clinic

Understanding it

About Diabetic foot checks, and what to do next.

High glucose damages both the small nerves and the blood supply of the feet, which means injuries can go unnoticed and heal poorly. A blister from a new shoe can become an ulcer, and infected ulcers are the main route to amputation - which is why the annual foot check exists. It grades each foot as low, moderate or high risk and sets the follow-up accordingly.

Between checks, the essentials are daily inspection, moisturising, careful nail care and never ignoring a wound. Any break in the skin, spreading redness or a hot swollen foot needs same-day assessment by a diabetic foot team. Most people start with their GP, who can refer to a podiatrist or diabetic foot clinic. NHS routine referrals often take 20-45+ weeks depending on where you live, while a private consultation is typically available within about two weeks.

A quiet reminder

This guide is for information, not medical advice.

Your GP knows your history and can tell you which parts apply to you. If in doubt, see them.

Frequently asked

Common questions about Diabetic foot checks.

Quick, plain-English answers to what people ask us most.

  • Why are diabetic foot checks important?

    Diabetes can quietly damage the nerves and blood circulation in the feet, so an annual structured foot check - and fast action on any new problems - helps catch issues early before they become serious complications like ulcers.

  • What does a diabetic foot check involve?

    A structured check typically includes testing sensation (to check for nerve damage), checking pulses and circulation, examining the skin and nails for any breaks or abnormalities, and assessing foot shape and pressure points.

  • Why does diabetes affect the feet specifically?

    High blood sugar over time can damage both the small nerves (causing reduced sensation) and blood vessels (reducing circulation) in the feet, meaning injuries can go unnoticed and heal poorly, increasing the risk of ulcers and infection.

  • Are foot problems in diabetes dangerous?

    Yes, unnoticed or poorly healing foot injuries can progress to ulcers and, in severe cases, infection or tissue loss requiring amputation, which is exactly why regular checks and prompt attention to any new foot problem matter so much.

  • How often should diabetic foot checks be done?

    Annual structured checks are generally recommended for most people with diabetes, though those with identified risk factors (reduced sensation, poor circulation, previous foot problems) may need more frequent monitoring.

  • What should I do if I notice a foot problem between checks?

    Any new cut, blister, redness, swelling, or change in your foot should be assessed promptly rather than waiting for your next scheduled check, since early treatment significantly reduces the risk of serious complications.

  • Can diabetic foot problems be prevented?

    Good blood sugar control, daily foot inspection, proper footwear, regular podiatry care, and prompt attention to any injuries all significantly reduce the risk of serious diabetic foot complications developing.

  • What is diabetic peripheral neuropathy and how does it relate to foot checks?

    Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage causing reduced sensation, often starting in the feet, which is specifically why foot checks include sensation testing - reduced sensation means injuries may not be felt and can go unnoticed until they've become more serious.

  • Who should perform diabetic foot checks?

    Checks can be performed by a GP, diabetes nurse, or podiatrist, with those at higher risk often benefiting from ongoing podiatry involvement rather than annual checks alone.

  • When should I book a diabetic foot check?

    Book an annual foot check as part of routine diabetes care, and seek prompt assessment for any new foot problem rather than waiting. A private podiatry assessment is often available within days if you want a prompt review.