Diabetic Foot Care in India and Why It’s More Important Than You Think

Living with diabetes in India is not uncommon. In fact, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research, over 101 million people in India are currently living with diabetes, and this number is growing every day.

Still, while most people focus only on sugar levels and diet, they often forget one critical area: foot care.

If you or your loved ones have diabetes, this article is your simple guide to understanding diabetic foot care, why it matters, and how to care for your feet properly.

Why Is Diabetic Foot Care So Important?

When you have diabetes, high blood sugar levels can slowly damage the nerves and blood vessels in your feet. This condition is known as diabetic neuropathy.

When the nerves in your feet are damaged, you might not feel pain, heat, or injuries. You may not even notice if there’s a cut or blister. This can lead to;

Infections that heal slowly.
Ulcers or wounds.
Blackening of the skin (gangrene).
In the worst case, amputation.

According to reports, more than 1 lakh amputations happen every year in India due to diabetes-related foot complications.

However, most of these problems can be prevented with regular foot care and early attention.

Early Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore

Here are some common foot symptoms that many diabetics face but ignore:

Burning or tingling in the feet
Numbness or loss of sensation
Dry, cracked skin
Changes in foot shape or color
Swelling or pain in the foot
Sores, blisters, or wounds that don’t heal

If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait. Consult a diabetes doctor immediately.

Simple Daily Diabetic Foot Care Routine

Taking care of your feet daily can help you avoid major complications. Here’s a simple routine you can follow:

1. Inspect Your Feet Daily

Look for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. If necessary, use a mirror or ask someone to help.

2. Wash and Dry Properly

Use lukewarm water and mild soap. Avoid hot water. Dry thoroughly, especially between toes.

3. Moisturise, But Carefully

Apply lotion to prevent cracks. Do not apply between the toes to avoid fungal infections.

4. Wear Comfortable Footwear

Choose soft shoes that fit well. Avoid walking barefoot, even at home.

5. Cut Nails Properly

Trim straight across and file the edges. Avoid cutting too deep.

6. Avoid Self-Treatment for Corns/Calluses

Never cut or dig into your foot skin. See a diabetes and foot care specialist.

When to Visit a Diabetes Doctor?

Even if you don’t feel pain, you must visit a diabetes doctor at least once every 3–6 months for a foot checkup. Go immediately if:

You see any wound or blister
There is swelling or redness.
There is black skin or pus.
You cannot feel touch or pain in your feet.

Early medical attention can stop the problem from becoming serious.

How the Best Doctor for Diabetes Helps with Foot Care

A good diabetes doctor doesn’t just treat sugar levels. They also guide you on complete diabetes and foot care. This includes:

Nerve function testing (neuropathy assessment)
Blood flow checks (Doppler test)
Wound cleaning and dressing
Custom footwear for diabetics
Diet and exercise advice

Some clinics also have a team of diabetologists, podiatrists (foot doctors), and wound care specialists under one roof. This is where choosing the best doctor for diabetes really matters.

Looking for expert help? Don’t wait for a wound to appear. Book your foot screening with the best doctor for diabetes in your area today.

Preventing Diabetic Foot Problems – 5 Quick Tips

Keep your blood sugar levels controlled.
Never walk barefoot, even at home.
Choose the right socks and shoes.
Keep your feet clean and moisturized.
See a doctor immediately for any injury.

These steps may seem small, but make a big difference in the long run.

Why India Needs More Awareness About Diabetes and Foot Care

In India, awareness about diabetes and foot care is still very low. Many people don’t know that a minor wound can become a severe infection in just a few days.

Rural areas are especially affected. People try home remedies instead of visiting a doctor. By the time they go to the hospital, the infection has spread, and amputation is the only option.

This is why it is crucial to spread awareness about diabetic foot care, not just in cities but also in small towns and villages.

Why Trust Dr. Durai:

With 10+ Years of Experience managing complex diabetes cases, Dr. Durai owns a certified Foot-Care Unit with an on-site Doppler test, neuropathy screening, and custom footwear lab.

Through accurate diagnosis and supervision, Dr. Durai has saved over 10,000 feet from amputation, earning the trust of numerous diabetic patients.