Living with diabetes means paying close attention to every part of your health, especially your feet. One of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of diabetic care is the foot exam diabetes patients should receive regularly. Why? Because diabetes can lead to nerve damage and poor circulation in the feet, increasing the risk of serious complications like ulcers, infections, and even amputations.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about diabetic foot exams: why they’re essential, what to expect during a professional exam, how often to schedule them, and how you can perform simple checks at home to stay ahead of problems.
Why a Foot Exam for Diabetes Is Essential
People with diabetes are more prone to foot problems because high blood sugar levels over time can cause nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) and reduce blood flow (peripheral arterial disease). These two factors create a dangerous combination: you may not feel an injury on your foot, and your body may not heal it properly.
Regular foot exam diabetes checks allow healthcare providers to catch early signs of:
- Loss of sensation or tingling
- Changes in skin temperature or color
- Calluses or corns
- Wounds that aren’t healing
- Fungal infections Ingrown toenails
- Foot deformities like hammertoes or bunions
Catching and treating these issues early can prevent them from developing into more serious, potentially limb-threatening problems.
For more tips on ongoing care, don’t miss our full guide: Diabetic Foot Care at Home: Preventing Complications with Expert Home Foot Care
How Often Should You Have a Diabetic Foot Exam?
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), every person with diabetes should have a comprehensive foot exam at least once a year. However, those at higher risk such as patients with a history of foot ulcers, neuropathy, or foot deformities may need foot exams more frequently.
Your primary care doctor or endocrinologist may refer you to a podiatrist for a specialized exam, especially if you're showing any early signs of complications.
What Happens During a Diabetic Foot Exam?
A professional foot exam diabetes patients receive is a thorough assessment that includes the following:
1. Visual Inspection
The provider will examine your feet for:
- Skin changes (redness, dryness, or cracks)
- Nail issues (fungus, thickened nails, or ingrown toenails)
- Signs of infection or inflammation
- Foot shape or alignment problems
2. Sensation Testing
To check for neuropathy, your provider may use:
- A monofilament (a thin nylon fiber) to test pressure sensation
- A tuning fork to assess vibration sensitivity
- Pinprick or temperature tools to evaluate other sensory responses
3. Circulation Assessment
Your provider will feel the pulses in your feet and ankles and may use a Doppler device to assess blood flow. Cold toes or pale skin could be signs of poor circulation.
4. Functional Assessment
They may also evaluate how well you can move your toes, ankles, and feet and check for any abnormalities in your gait (how you walk).
5. Footwear Review
Wearing the right shoes is key to avoiding pressure points and friction. Your provider may recommend diabetic shoes or orthotic inserts tailored to your needs.
How to Perform a Diabetic Foot Exam at Home
While professional exams are essential, daily foot checks at home are just as important. Here's how you can do a quick foot exam diabetes check every day:
1. Look for Visual Changes
Use a mirror or ask a caregiver to help you check the bottom of your feet. Look for:
- Blisters, cuts, or scrapes
- Swelling
- Redness or hot spots
- Discoloration or bruising
2. Check for Pain or Numbness
Move your toes and ankles. Are there any areas that feel numb, tingling, or unusually painful?
3. Inspect Toenails and Skin
Look for ingrown nails, signs of fungus, or overly dry and cracked skin especially around the heels.
If you notice anything unusual, notify your doctor or podiatrist right away.
How In-Home Foot Exams Can Make Diabetes Care Easier
For seniors or individuals with mobility issues, getting to a clinic for regular foot exams isn’t always feasible. That’s where mobile podiatry services come in.
A licensed podiatrist can perform a full diabetic foot exam right in your home, offering:
- Regular monitoring of high-risk feet
- Nail care, callus removal, and ulcer prevention
- Footwear assessments and recommendations
In fact, in-home podiatry plays a key role in preventing hospitalizations. Learn more in our blog: The Importance of Foot Health for Hospice Patients: How Mobile Care Makes a Difference
Final Thoughts: Prioritize Your Diabetic Foot Health
Foot complications are among the most serious risks of diabetes but they are also some of the most preventable. By scheduling regular foot exam diabetes checkups and building daily foot care into your routine, you can avoid complications and keep moving confidently.
Need diabetic foot care that comes to you? Schedule an in-home foot exam with AllevioCare Anywhere and protect your health with expert care delivered right where you need it.
Key Takeaways:
- Get a diabetic foot exam at least once a year, or more often if you're high-risk.
- Perform daily at-home foot checks for early warning signs.
- In-home podiatry care ensures consistent, professional support—without the stress of travel.
