World Diabetes Day: 5 Foot Care Habits That Could Save Your Mobility

Why Feet Matter on World Diabetes Day

Your feet work hard every day, carrying you through school, work, sports, and life.
For people with diabetes, those steps deserve extra care. High blood-sugar levels can damage the nerves and circulation that keep your feet healthy. Over time, that can lead to reduced sensation (neuropathy), slower healing, and a higher risk of infections or ulcers.

The good news? Most of these complications are preventable with early checks and simple daily habits. That’s why World Diabetes Day is the perfect reminder to check in on your foot health.

Five Simple Habits for Healthier Feet

1. Check your feet daily.
   Look for cuts, blisters, cracks, or colour changes. Use a mirror or ask someone to help check the soles if you can’t see them easily. Spotting problems early is the best way to prevent infection.
2. Keep feet clean and moisturised.
   Wash your feet daily in warm (warm, not hot!) water, and dry well between the toes. Apply a moisturiser to keep skin soft, but avoid the spaces between your toes to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
3. Trim toenails carefully.
   Cut nails straight across, not too short, and file rough edges. If you have thick, curved, or hard-to-reach nails, see a podiatrist, never cut deep corners yourself.
4. Choose the right footwear.
   Avoid tight shoes or heels that rub. Opt for well-fitting, supportive shoes with room for your toes to move. Check inside your shoes before wearing them to make sure there’s nothing sharp inside.
5. Book a podiatry check at least once a year.
   A diabetic foot check is quick and non-invasive. Your podiatrist assesses circulation, sensation, and overall foot health, catching changes you may not notice.

“Even if your feet feel fine, an annual check can keep them that way.”

Our Local Initiatives This World Diabetes Day

On Friday 14 November, our team will be out in the community supporting patients and raising awareness through local clinics:

• Morning Clinic: 8 am – 12 pm at The Doctors Huapai

Our experienced podiatrist Andrea Connell, with over 30 years of diabetic foot-care experience in both the UK NHS and Te Whatu Ora, will be supporting patients and health teams with annual screenings and education.

In the clinic at Norwest Podiatry, we’ll also be sharing resources and displaying blue to mark World Diabetes Day, the global colour of diabetes awareness.

Every Step Counts, Movement Matters

Alongside the national awareness campaign, Diabetes NZ has launched its “One Million Minutes” fundraiser, encouraging Kiwis to get moving and log their minutes of activity throughout November.

You don’t need to fundraise to take part, even small changes like walking after dinner, taking the stairs, or spending time in the garden help improve circulation and foot health.
Movement keeps the blood flowing, and your feet thrive on good circulation.

When to See a Podiatrist

See a Podiatrist promptly if you notice:

• Cuts or blisters that don’t heal within a few days
• Numbness, tingling, or pain in the feet
• Swelling or redness that persists
• Changes in nail colour, thickness, or shape

At Norwest Podiatry, we provide comprehensive diabetic foot assessments, checking circulation, nerve sensation, and skin health. We work closely with GPs, nurses, and community teams to ensure you receive the right care at the right time.