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Once a diabetic foot ulcer has been treated and has healed, preventing recurrence of a subsequent ulcer is of utmost importance. The rate of recurrence of diabetic foot ulcers has been estimated to range from 28% at 1-year to nearly 100% at 3 years or longer. The risk of amputation also increases with each recurrence of the ulcer and, therefore, preventing recurrence is a major objective in the management of patients with a history of diabetic foot ulcers.

Prevention of diabetic foot ulcers focuses on the following important aspects:

• Improved blood glucose control to better control diabetes and reduce the risk of vascular complications (e.g., peripheral vascular disease)
• Use of pressure-relieving therapeutic shoes with custom insoles has been shown to reduce the recurrence of diabetic foot ulcers

• Patient education regarding developing good foot hygiene practices. Here are some useful suggestions:

  • wash your feet daily with a mild soap and water
  • use an emollient to prevent dry skin which is susceptible to "cracking" that can serve as a portal of entry for bacteria and cause infection
  • check your feet daily for cuts, bruises, or signs of infection
  • don't walk around barefoot because it increases the risk for foot trauma (e.g., cuts, penetrating objects) which is a leading risk factor for developing diabetic foot ulcers
  • be careful in trimming your toenails to prevent injury to the toes
  • if you develop an ingrown toenail, don't try to remove it by yourself; have it removed by a podiatrist
  • get rid of shoes that do not fit you properly
  • avoid shoes with "pointed" toes or shoes that are too tight (particularly around the toes)
  • Seek professional foot care from a podiatrist at least once a year and immediately if you suspect or notice a problem with your feet