The 2-minute daily foot check for people with diabetes

Most serious foot problems start as a small wound nobody noticed. Here is what to look for.

Check both feet every evening in good light — use a mirror or ask a family member for the soles. Look for cuts, blisters, cracks between the toes, colour changes or swelling.

Wash and dry carefully between the toes, moisturise the skin but not between the toes, and never walk barefoot, even at home.

If a wound has not started to heal within a few days, or the foot becomes red, swollen or painful, contact the clinic the same day. Early care is the single most effective way to protect the foot.