Diabetes Report 2025

Doctors see that communication and trust are crucial for effective prevention.

What podiatrists experience

Podiatrists are at the forefront of prevention. They see feet before problems arise—and often recognize risks before they become critical.

Many would like more time and less bureaucracy so they can provide more intensive care to patients. This is because almost 90% of practices do not currently work in networks, even though they could have a particularly significant impact there.

Podiatrists know how powerful motivation can be:
A good relationship of trust, clear communication, and shared goals can make a big difference.
When patients see that their efforts are paying off—fewer pressure points, better skin, less pain - they become more motivated to stick with it.

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

How patients experience their care

Most diabetics know that foot care is important. Many integrate it into their daily routine—checking, applying cream, caring for their feet. But sometimes they lack the impetus to continue, for example when results are not immediately visible or motivation wanes.

Clear routines and small successes are particularly helpful.
Noticeable effects, fixed rituals and motivating words from a doctor or podiatrist make all the difference.

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

Financial hurdles also play a role: not every service is fully reimbursed. Better cost coverage could reach more people – and prevent a lot of suffering.

Four figures that motivate action

Sometimes figures say more 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 corresponds to their risk.
But only 37% receive podiatric treatment, even though it contributes significantly to prevention.
These figures are a mirror: they show awareness, but also gaps.
The good thing is that every figure can be improved – through education, motivation, and teamwork.
When doctors, podiatrists, and patients act together, statistics become real prevention.

Four numbers, 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 recognize risks early on and explain them in an understandable way.

• Podiatrists who accompany, motivate, and build trust.

• Patients who take responsibility and stick with it.

This creates a cycle that protects: knowledge, action, experience—and starting over again and again.

Staying healthy feet – what helps, what hurts

Taking regular care of your feet can significantly reduce the risk of complications.
These simple basic rules help to maintain foot health and make prevention part of your everyday routine:

Recommended measures

• Daily check: Inspect your feet regularly – including between your 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.
• Use 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.
• Involve support: If you are unsure or have limited mobility, involve relatives or specialist staff – prevention is teamwork.

To avoid

• Hot foot baths: Reduced temperature sensitivity 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 retention.
• Self-treatment of wounds: Injuries should be treated by a doctor or podiatrist.

Conclusion

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