Management

Inspecting Your Feet (Diabetes)

Choose a preferred language


Step-by-Step

  1. Hands washing feet in water with cloth.

    Wash your feet with warm water and mild soap.

  2. Hands drying feet with towel.

    Gently pat your feet dry. Don’t rub.

  3. Both feet, with hand touching top of foot.

    Check the tops of your feet for problems.

  4. Hands spreading toes apart on one foot.

    Look for sores between your toes, like corns.

  5. Fingers beginning to touch the edges of each toenail on one foot.

    Check for ingrown toenails and cracked nails.

  6. Hands touching inner and outer edges of feet.

    Check the sides for things like calluses.

  7. Bottom of foot reflecting in handheld mirror.

    Use a mirror to look at hard-to-see areas.

  8. Bottom of foot, with hand touching heel of foot.

    Check your soles for blisters and sores.

  9. Piece of paper with writing and image of feet, with hand drawing circle on one foot.

    Write down any problems to tell your doctor.

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Start your journey toward better health

Select a primary care physician who will deliver personal care, close to home.

Find a Doctor

We have more than 4,500 specialty care physicians in our network

We have you covered from head (neurosurgery) to toe (podiatry.) And everything in-between!

Find a Doctor

Need Help?

Get the right care at the right time.

Learn More
Related Articles
Read article
Diabetes
Diabetes: Understanding Carbohydrates, Fats, and Protein

Understanding how different foods affect blood sugar can help you manage your diabetes.

Read article
Diabetes
Resources for People with Diabetes

Living with diabetes means making many changes in your life, and these changes may seem overwhelming. When you feel down, reach out to your family and friends, and to your healthcare team. Here is a list of other resources.

Read article
Diabetes
Checking Your Blood Sugar

Illustrations to show you how to check your blood sugar.

Read article
Diabetes
Checking Ketones

Here are images showing how to treat high blood sugar when you have diabetes.