Why daily checks matter
Small issues → big problems Tiny cuts, pressure spots, or nail problems can turn into serious infections before they hurt — especially if you have diabetes or reduced sensation. A quick daily check finds trouble early.
Common risks
- Dry, cracked heels; fungal nails; athlete’s foot
- Pressure points from tight shoes or bunions
- Blisters under calluses you can’t feel
What you’ll need
- Good light and a hand mirror
- Soft towel; mild soap
- Unscented moisturizer (avoid between toes)
- Nail clippers/emery board
- Clean cotton or moisture-wicking socks
Your 6-step check (5–7 minutes)
1) Look top & bottom
- Use the mirror to see heels, soles, and between toes.
- Check for redness, cuts, cracks, blisters, or color changes.
2) Feel for trouble
- Press gently along the sole and toes for tender or warm spots.
- Compare both feet — swelling or warmth on one side can signal infection.
3) Dry well — especially between toes
- Moisture between toes leads to fungal infections and skin splits.
4) Moisturize skin
- Apply cream to tops/soles/heels; skip between toes.
5) Check nails
- Trim straight across; smooth edges. Don’t dig into corners.
- Yellow, thick, or curved nails? Consider podiatry review.
6) Socks & shoes
- Shake out shoes; inspect insoles for wear or stones.
- Wear clean, dry socks; choose shoes with a roomy toe box.
Clean, dry & moisturize (quick guide)
| Do | Avoid | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Short, lukewarm wash (not hot) | Soaking >10 minutes | Long soaks soften skin and increase splits |
| Pat dry, especially between toes | Rubbing hard | Prevents skin tears |
| Moisturize heels/soles daily | Cream between toes | Moisture between toes → fungal/maceration |
| Use pumice gently on thick heels | Sharp blades or callus shavers | Risk of cuts and infection |
Nail care & callus
- Trim nails when they’re dry and firm; cut straight across.
- Round sharp edges with a file; avoid digging into corners.
- Thick or curved nails (ingrown risk) → book a podiatry visit.
Shoes & socks
Fit checklist
- Roomy toe box; thumb’s width in front of the longest toe.
- Firm heel counter; non-slip sole; cushioned insole.
- No inside seams rubbing bunions or hammer toes.
Red flags (call your clinician promptly)
- Any open sore, ulcer, or skin breakdown
- Spreading redness, warmth, pus, or fever
- Black/blue skin patches, sudden severe pain, or numb area that’s getting bigger
- Ingrown nail with swelling/pain, especially if diabetic
Mark the edge of redness with a pen to see if it’s spreading while you arrange care.
What to track
- Cuts/blisters/callus areas (draw or snap a dated photo)
- Daily moisturizing (✓/✗) and sock changes
- Shoe issues (rubbing spots, worn insoles)
- Blood sugars (if diabetic) when infections occur
Quick answers
Best time to check?
After your bath or before bed when feet are clean and you can sit with good light.
Can I go barefoot at home?
It’s safer to wear supportive slippers/shoes with a closed toe to avoid cuts and stubs.
What if I can’t reach my feet?
Use a long-handled mirror or ask a helper to check. Consider periodic podiatry visits.
Lotion between toes — yes or no?
No. Keep that area dry to prevent fungal skin splits. Moisturize the rest of the foot.
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