Diabetes Report 2025

Foot health in diabetes: Small steps, big impact

Why prevention matters 

Diabetes affects many people – and often their feet too. Poor circulation and nerve damage can mean that minor injuries go unnoticed. What starts out as harmless can develop into chronic wounds – sometimes with serious consequences.

But it doesn’t have to be that way: Taking early action can significantly reduce risks. Prevention protects not only the feet, but also your zest for life, mobility and independence. Every step towards mindfulness is a step towards a better quality of life.

The state of foot health

A recent GEHWOL survey of doctors, podiatrists and patients shows: awareness of preventive care is high – but there is still room for improvement when it comes to putting it into practice.

69 % of people with diabetes are considered to be at risk of diabetic foot syndrome (DFS).

86 % know how important regular foot care is.

Nevertheless, only one in three receives podiatric treatment that would help prevent serious complications.

What doctors see

Medical professionals know that the earlier changes are detected, the better complications can be prevented. Regular check-ups, attending training sessions and collaborating with podiatrists are among the most important elements of preventive care.

In practice, however, prevention is often hampered by a lack of time, bureaucracy and a lack of incentives. Yet regional networks demonstrate just how well it can work: where doctors, podiatrists and advisors work hand in hand, the number and severity of foot complications decrease noticeably.

The most important factor for success: communication.
Patients need clear, understandable messages and the feeling that they are being taken seriously. Trust is the key to ensuring that recommendations are actually followed.

Doctors recognise: communication and trust are crucial for effective prevention.

What podiatrists experience

Podiatrists are at the forefront of prevention. They examine feet before problems arise – and often identify risks before the situation becomes critical.

Many would like more time and less bureaucracy so they can provide more intensive support to patients. This is because almost 90 % of practices do not currently operate within networks, even though they could make a significant difference there.

Podiatrists know how powerful motivation is: A good relationship of trust, clear communication and shared goals can make a big difference. When patients see that their efforts are making a difference – fewer pressure points, better skin, less pain – their motivation to keep going grows.

Motivation starts with trust: podiatrists are key players in prevention.

How patients experience their care

Most people with diabetes know that foot care is important. Many incorporate it into their daily routine – checking, applying cream, caring for their feet. But sometimes the impetus to keep going is missing: for example, when results aren’t immediately visible or motivation wanes.

Clear routines and small successes are particularly helpful.
Visible results, established routines and encouraging words from a doctor or podiatrist make all the difference.

Motivation grows when progress is noticeable – small steps, big impact.

Financial barriers also play a role: not every service is fully reimbursed. Yet better cost coverage could reach more people – and prevent a great deal of suffering.

Four figures that motivate action

Sometimes figures speak louder than words.
The GEHWOL Diabetes Report clearly shows where we stand – and where we need to go:

69 % of people with diabetes are considered high-risk patients..
86 % know that foot care is important.
69 % have a preventive care routine that matches their risk.
Yet only 37 % receive podiatric treatment, even though it plays a crucial role in prevention.

These figures hold a mirror up to us: they reveal awareness, but also the gaps. The good news is that every figure can improve – through education, motivation and teamwork. When doctors, podiatrists and patients work together, statistics turn into real prevention.

Four figures, one goal: prevention for a better quality of life.

Thinking ahead together

Healthy feet are not a given – but they can be maintained. This requires commitment from all sides:

• Doctors who identify risks early and explain them clearly.
• Podiatrists who support, motivate and build trust.
• Patients who take responsibility and stay committed.

This creates a protective cycle: knowledge, action, experience – and starting afresh time and again.

Keeping your feet healthy – what helps, what harms

If you look after your feet regularly, you can significantly reduce the risk of complications. These simple basic rules help to maintain foot health and make prevention part of your daily routine:

Recommended measures

• Daily check: Inspect your feet regularly – including between the toes. This allows small changes to be detected early.
• Systematic care: Use suitable moisturizing products every day that are tailored to the needs of diabetic skin – e.g., GEHWOL MED Lipidro Cream.
• Check your shoes: Wear comfortable, pressure-free shoes and check them regularly for foreign objects or hard inner seams.
• Seek podiatric treatment: Regular foot care by specialists supports the early detection of risks.
• Attend medical check-ups: Preventive examinations enable vascular and nerve changes to be detected in good time.
• Seek support: If you are unsure or have limited mobility, involve relatives or specialist staff – prevention is a team effort.

Things to avoid

• Hot foot baths: Reduced sensitivity to temperature can lead to scalding.
• Sharp instruments: Callus shavers, razor blades or scissors pose a risk of injury.
• Tight or synthetic socks: They promote pressure points and moisture build-up.
• Self-treatment of wounds: Injuries should be treated by a doctor or podiatrist.

Conclusion

Protecting your feet means protecting yourself. Regular checks, good care and consultation with specialists can drastically reduce the risk of serious consequences. Because healthy feet mean: more freedom, greater well-being – and a fuller life.