Diabetic Foot Care: Protecting Your Health One Step at a Time

For patients living with diabetes, taking care of your feet is more than comfort—it’s a matter of health and safety. High blood sugar can affect circulation and nerve function, which makes the feet more vulnerable to injuries, infections, and slow healing. Without proper care, even a small cut or blister can turn into a serious complication.

At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group in Laguna Hills, Dr. Neda Arjomandi, board-certified podiatrist, works closely with patients to keep their feet healthy, prevent complications, and provide advanced treatments when needed.

Why Diabetes Affects the Feet

Two major complications of diabetes increase the risk of foot problems:

• Neuropathy (nerve damage): Reduced sensation in the feet means cuts, blisters, or ingrown toenails may go unnoticed.

• Poor circulation: Slower blood flow delays healing, raising the chance of infection.

This combination makes it essential for patients with diabetes to be proactive about foot care.

Common Diabetic Foot Problems

Patients with diabetes may experience:

• Dry, cracked skin

• Thickened or fungal toenails

• Corns and calluses

• Ingrown toenails

• Ulcers or wounds that don’t heal

• Infections or cellulitis

• Charcot foot (severe deformity caused by neuropathy and bone weakness)

Warning Signs to Watch For

Contact a podiatrist promptly if you notice:

• Redness, swelling, or warmth in the foot

• Open wounds or ulcers

• Persistent pain or burning sensations

• Thick, discolored, or brittle toenails

• Changes in foot shape or arch collapse

Diabetic Foot Care at Home

Daily habits make a big difference in preventing complications:

• Inspect feet daily: Look for cuts, redness, or swelling. Use a mirror for the bottoms of feet.

• Wash and moisturize: Keep feet clean and skin hydrated, but avoid applying lotion between the toes.

• Trim toenails carefully: Straight across and not too short—avoid digging into the corners.

• Wear proper footwear: Shoes should fit well, with no rubbing or tightness.

• Avoid walking barefoot: Even indoors, to prevent injuries.

Professional Foot Care

Even with careful self-care, regular podiatry visits are essential. At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, diabetic foot care may include:

• Comprehensive foot exams

• Safe nail and callus trimming

• Custom orthotics for pressure relief

• Ulcer prevention and wound care

• Treatment for fungal or ingrown toenails

• Education on footwear and daily routines

Partnering in Your Long-Term Health

Diabetic foot complications are preventable with consistent care. Many patients see a podiatrist at least once every 2–3 months to stay ahead of potential issues. Dr. Arjomandi takes a preventive approach, identifying risks early and helping patients maintain strong, healthy feet for the long term.

Take the Next Step

If you have diabetes, don’t wait for a problem to develop—routine foot care can protect your health and independence.

📍 Call Laguna Woods Podiatry Group at 949-581-2520 to schedule your diabetic foot exam today.

We welcome patients from Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Foothill Ranch, Ladera Ranch, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Newport Beach, Tustin, Costa Mesa, and Santa Ana.