The NDSS is
administered by

NDSS Helpline
1800 637 700

NDSS Helpline

1800 637 700

Daily Footcare

Make foot care part of your everyday routine.

Because things can get worse quickly, you should check your feet every day. The good news is that most issues can be prevented if you catch them early enough.

Make foot care a daily habit

Daily foot checks are important to catch any changes in the look and feel of your feet.

Check your feet at the same time each day, such as when you get out of bed or change your socks.

If you have trouble reaching your feet, use a mirror or ask a family member or carer to help.

What to watch out for

  • Look for injuries such as cuts or bruises or ulcers.
  • Check for temperature changes, such as your feet feeling hot or cold.
  • Be aware of any colour changes or new sensations such as foot numbness, tingling or pain.
  • Make sure toenails are not too short or long.
  • Look for corns or calluses (hard skin) that can build up from pressure or friction to the feet.
  • Check for changes or injuries between the toes.

Wash, dry, moisturise

Our skin protects us against infection, keeping it clean and moisturised stops cracking.

Cracked skin can let bacteria in. Stopping feet from cracking reduces the risk of infection.

Check socks and shoes

  • Wear protective footwear that fits the shape of your foot.
  • Wear clean socks to protect the feet from rubbing and to help absorb sweat.

Get help:

See your healthcare team if you notice any changes or injuries like the following:

Immediately

  • Ulcers or wounds that won’t heal
  • Swelling, heat, or changes in skin colour – signs of infection
  • Pus or a bad smell coming from a wound
  • Bruising
  • Blisters or cuts
  • Infected ingrown nails
  • Pain

Within 7 days

  • Broken skin between toes
  • Callus (hard skin)
  • Changes to foot shape
  • Changes to nail colour
  • Painful toenails
  • Corns
  • Cracked skin

More resources to support your journey to healthy feet

Are you putting your best foot forward? Check your risk level today.

Foot health check takes approx 2 mins