Hello, Feet! It’s Time for Your Daily Diabetes Wellness Check

Posted on October 29, 2025

Did you know? Diabetes can damage the blood vessels and nerves in your feet over time. You may experience tingling, numbness, pain or the loss of feeling in your feet, which are symptoms of diabetic nerve damage, also known as diabetic neuropathy. You can also have nerve damage in your feet and not know it, due to a loss of sensation.

Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do to prevent or delay diabetes-related nerve damage. If you have diabetes, protect your feet with the following healthy steps.

• Have a daily foot routine. Look for blisters, cuts, or bruises; cracked and peeling skin; and redness and swelling. If you spot problems on your feet that don’t start to heal in a few days, make an appointment to see your doctor right away. Small sores can quickly turn into a major infection.
• Wash your feet daily. Use warm soap and water. After drying your feet, use talcum powder or cornstarch between your toes to soak up moisture that can cause infection.
• Choose the right footwear. Wear shoes and well-fitting cotton socks to protect your feet from injury. The best shoes are snug but not too tight and have a wide toe box. Be sure to change your socks daily too. Avoid walking barefoot, even if you are indoors or at the beach.
• Get regular foot exams. If you have diabetes, you should have a foot exam at least once a year.
• Track your glucose levels closely. Keep your blood sugar as close to your target as possible by following your diabetes management plan, including taking your medication as directed.

Be sure to make an appointment with your primary care provider if you develop issues with your feet. To find a provider, search our Provider Directory at healthnewengland.org/medicare/provider or call Member Services toll-free at (877) 443-3314 (TTY: 711), Mon. – Fri., 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. (Oct. 1 – Mar. 31: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., 7 days/week).

Sources: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; UptoDate

Categories: MemberMatters - Medicare

Tags: Diabetes