Condition guide · Diabetes
Diabetic foot care: protecting your feet
Diabetes can quietly damage the nerves and circulation in your feet, so a small problem — a blister or callus — can turn serious before you feel it. A simple daily routine and the right footwear prevent the large majority of complications.
Educational overview drawn from public health sources (e.g., NIH, CDC, American Diabetes Association).Educational information, not medical advice — talk with your physician about what's right for you.
Why diabetes affects your feet
Over time, high blood sugar can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) that dulls sensation, so injuries go unnoticed. It can also narrow blood vessels, slowing healing. Together, that turns minor issues into wounds that are slow to close.
Common foot problems to watch for
- Calluses and corns that can break down into sores
- Foot ulcers — open wounds, often on the sole or toes
- Infections that spread quickly with poor circulation
- Changes in foot shape or pressure points over time
A daily foot-care routine
- Check both feet every day — tops, soles, and between the toes (use a mirror if needed).
- Wash daily, dry well (especially between toes), and moisturize dry skin.
- Never go barefoot; wear well-fitting shoes and seamless socks.
- Trim nails carefully, and see a provider for calluses rather than cutting them yourself.
Why footwear matters
Therapeutic (diabetic) shoes and inserts are designed to reduce pressure and rubbing that lead to ulcers. For people with diabetes and a qualifying foot condition, Medicare covers a pair each year — one of the most effective ways to prevent serious problems.
When to see a provider
Any wound, ulcer, redness, warmth, or change in color needs prompt attention — don't wait. Early care prevents most serious diabetic foot complications, and your provider's assessment is also what establishes Medicare coverage for therapeutic shoes.
Have diabetes and a qualifying foot condition? Check your Medicare coverage for therapeutic shoes.
Check your Medicare coverage in one step, or talk to an intake specialist — no cost or commitment to check.
Common questions
Does Medicare cover diabetic shoes?+
Yes — Medicare Part B covers one pair of therapeutic shoes and inserts per year for people with diabetes and at least one qualifying foot condition. See our coverage page for the criteria, or check your eligibility below.
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