Diabetic Foot Care in Toronto
Diabetic Foot Care: Protect Your Feet from Complications
Why Diabetic Foot Care Is Essential
If you have diabetes, caring for your feet is not optional – it’s a crucial part of managing your health. Diabetes can damage nerves (peripheral neuropathy) and reduce blood flow, especially to your feet.
This combination means you might not feel injuries like cuts or blisters, and wounds take longer to heal. Without proper care, even a small injury can become a serious infection or ulcer.
Why foot care matters:
- Nerve damage reduces sensation, so injuries often go unnoticed
- Poor circulation slows healing and increases infection risk
- Foot ulcers can develop under pressure points and become infected
- Diabetic foot complications are a major cause of hospitalizations and amputations – but are largely preventable
Common Diabetic Foot Problems You Should Know
Understanding these issues helps prevent complications:
1. Diabetic Neuropathy (Nerve Damage)
- Causes numbness, tingling, burning, or loss of feeling
- Makes it easy to miss injuries
- Affects up to 70% of people with diabetes
2. Poor Circulation (Peripheral Artery Disease)
- Limits blood flow and delays healing
- Can cause cold feet, discoloration, and pain while walking
- Increases the risk of infection and ulcers
3. Foot Ulcers
- Open sores usually develop on soles, heels, or toes
- Caused by pressure, friction, or unnoticed injuries
- Can become infected and require urgent medical attention
4. Fungal Infections and Ingrown Toenails
- Diabetes increases moisture, raising infection risk
- Fungal infections may cause redness, itching, and cracking
- Ingrown toenails can lead to pain and infection if untreated
5. Charcot Foot
- A rare but serious condition where foot bones weaken and shift
- Leads to deformities and changes in foot shape
- Requires immediate care from a podiatrist
Your Daily Diabetic Foot Care Routine: Step-by-Step
Taking just a few minutes a day can protect your feet:
1. Inspect Your Feet Daily
- Check for cuts, redness, swelling, blisters, or color changes
- Use a mirror or ask someone to check the soles
- Look between toes and under pressure areas
2. Wash Your Feet Gently
- Use lukewarm water (test with elbow)
- Clean with mild, fragrance-free soap
- Dry thoroughly, especially between toes
3. Moisturize (But Not Between Toes)
- Use lotion or cream to prevent cracking
- Do not apply between toes to avoid excess moisture buildup
4. Trim Toenails Carefully
- Cut nails straight across – avoid rounding corners
- Don’t cut them too short
- If needed, get help from a podiatrist or foot care nurse
5. Wear Proper Socks and Shoes
- Use seamless, breathable socks
- Choose shoes with a wide toe box and good support
- Never walk barefoot, even indoors
Your Feet Deserve Professional Care
Book your appointment today and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free feet.
When to See a Podiatrist
Professional foot care is essential for diabetes management:
- Schedule a foot exam at least once per year
- Visit more often if you have ulcers, neuropathy, or foot deformities
- Seek immediate care if you notice:
- A sore, blister, or cut that isn’t healing
- Redness, warmth, or swelling
- Numbness, tingling, or pain
- Skin color changes or changes in nail appearance
Choosing the Right Footwear for Diabetics
Proper shoes help prevent injuries:
- Get fitted for supportive shoes with a wide toe box
- Avoid high heels, sandals, or pointed shoes
- Ask about diabetic shoes or custom orthotics
- Inspect inside shoes daily for debris
What Our Customers Say
I recently visited Footcare on Bay to get custom orthotics, and they’ve been life-changing. Dr. Ray took the time to carefully assess my needs, explain everything in detail, and answer all of my questions. The orthotics I received have made a huge difference in my daily life—my foot pain is practically gone, and I feel so much more comfortable whether I’m walking, standing, or exercising. If you’re looking for quality care and real results, Footcare on Bay is the place to go.
A year ago, I dropped a coffee cup on my toe, and it turned into a pain-in-the-toe nightmare with an ingrown toenail. After several appointments with Dr. John Ray, we finally decided to "take care of it" once and for all. I was terrified - like, sweaty-palms, full-on panic mode- but Dr. Ray was a total pro.
I’m so thankful for Dr. Ray’s skill and ability to make me feel relaxed and comfortable. Highly recommend him to anyone who needs toe TLC (and a calming presence to stop you from hyperventilating in the chair).
I have had an aggressive form of an ingrown toenail for many years. I've been to many hospitals, many hours of waiting & no doctor would help me. Dr. Ray did a awesome job, I highly recommend him.
My father has been to multiple foot clinics and his foot pain still persisted. Was recommended by one of his friends and I brought him in. I explained the frustrations to the doctor there and I appreciate his honesty and care for my father. He tried other methods to help with recovery and 3 weeks in, so far so good.
Highly recommended!
I hobbled into the clinic with terrible pain in my left foot . After 8 hours of Dr Ray's treatment, l was pain-free and walking normally. I am very grateful for Dr. Ray's expertise and care.
I came in a few weeks a go regarding my severe heel pain that I’ve been dealing with for over a year now. I saw Dr. Ray who examined my issue and scheduled me for a series of shockwave treatments followed by fitting for Custom Orthotics. I now walk pain free! Highly recommend for anyone suffering from foot pain.
I had heel pain and Dr. Ray made my Orthotics and it fixed my foot pain. Excellent service!
After a really bad experience at another clinic, I came here for orthotics and although I don’t have them yet, it was a great experience and look forward to working with this place!.
I have been coming for years to Footcare on Bay for my orthotics. Despite a recent change in ownership, their commitment to customer service and satisfaction continues to be unparalleled. If there is an issue with your orthotic, they will move heaven and earth to make it right. That kind of customer service is rare these days. Great orthodics, great staff, great customer service. If you need orthotics, this is the place to get them.
Nutritional Tips to Support Foot Health
Healthy eating improves circulation and healing:
- Vitamin C: Supports collagen and skin repair
- Zinc: Helps immune function and wound healing
- Omega-3s: Reduce inflammation and improve blood flow
- Stay hydrated and control blood sugar for better healing
Advanced Tools and Technologies
Modern tech can help you manage foot care more effectively:
- Smart socks: Detect pressure and temperature changes
- Thermal imaging apps: Spot early inflammation
- Telepodiatry: Enables remote consultations
Real-Life Success Story
Maria, 62, with type 2 diabetes, ignored a small blister that became an ulcer. After working with her podiatrist and sticking to a daily foot care routine, she fully healed and remained ulcer-free for over a year. Her experience shows the power of early care and consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why can’t I feel pain in my feet anymore?
Likely due to diabetic neuropathy, which reduces sensation. That’s why daily checks are so important.
Can I use a heating pad on my feet?
No. You may not feel burns due to reduced sensitivity.
Are foot massages safe for diabetics?
Yes, if done gently and there are no open wounds.
How often should I see a foot specialist?
At least once a year – more often if you have known issues.
What are the best shoes for diabetic feet?
Shoes with soft insoles, no seams, and a wide toe box. A podiatrist can help you choose.
Take Control of Your Foot Health Today
Diabetic foot care doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. Just a few minutes each day can prevent painful, costly complications. Be proactive, control your blood sugar, and see a specialist if any issues arise.
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