If your child has diabetes then his or her blood sugar levels are too high. High blood sugar can damage nerves or blood vessels over time. That nerve damage can result in burning pain or cause your child to lose sensitivity in body parts such as the feet. Because of lost sensitivity, your child may not feel a cut, blister, or sore. Ulcers and infections can result from these untreated foot injuries. Your child’s feet may eventually not get enough blood or oxygen due to damaged blood vessels. It is harder for a diabetic’s feet to heal, when they get a sore or infection. Some diabetics with serious cases have had parts, such as toes or feet, amputated.

That is why it is important for your child to develop good foot hygiene habits early in life. Good habits can help avoid future foot problems. Be sure to tell your child’s doctor right away if problems such as loss of feeling, sores, cracks, or ingrown toenails are noticed. The most important thing is to help your child learn to control blood sugar levels by following the doctor's advice on diet, exercise, and medicine.

Some good habits for your diabetic child to develop involve washing his or her feet every day with mild soap and lukewarm (not hot) water.

Pat feet dry with a soft towel but don’t rub them and don’t forget to dry between the toes.

Apply cream after drying to keep the skin of your feet smooth especially on the heels.

Sprinkle a nonmedicated powder on your child’s feet to help keep them dry before putting on socks.

Check your child’s feet every day and encourage your child to do this as well. Your child may need to use a mirror to see the bottom of his or her feet.

Talk to your child’s doctor before treating calluses, corns, or bunions.

Cut your child’s toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails. If you do this after you wash your child’s feet, the toenails might be softer and easier to cut.

Do not allow your diabetic child to go barefoot, wear sandals or other open toed shoes, or wear shoes without socks. Make sure that shoes are comfortable and not too tight. Shop for shoes at the end of the day when feet are bigger and break them in slowly by only wearing them for a couple of hours a day for several days. Have a least two pairs of shoes so your child can switch every other day.

Do not choose socks that are stretch, nylon, elastic topped, or with inside seams. Choose well-padded socks that are ½ inch longer than your longest toe.

Don't let your child’s feet get too hot or too cold.

American Diabetes Association
1701 North Beauregard Street
Alexandria, VA 22311
1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383)


Photo Credit Julia Fuller 2007 Thanks to Jared for posing.