Diabetes is a chronic illness that can cause a host of health problems, including foot injuries and infections. Thankfully, prevention can help individuals living with diabetes stay a step ahead, said Terese Steinbach, senior director for clinical program innovation, Cigna Healthcare Medicare Advantage.

More than 29% of people 65 or older have type 2 diabetes, as do 17% of people ages 45-64. Additionally, more than 1 in 3 U.S. adults have prediabetes, putting them at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes can damage many areas of the body, including the nerves and blood vessels that travel to the feet, resulting in a condition called diabetic neuropathy. Symptoms include tingling, pain, and foot numbness. People with this condition may not notice foot injuries, and those injuries can quickly escalate and become dangerous. Untreated, these injuries can lead to infection, the need for amputation, or even death.

That is why people with diabetes should take time each day to care for their feet. A self-care routine is easy to plan and implement, Steinbach said. She recommends the following preventive steps.

Check your feet daily

Look for blisters, cuts, cracks, sores, broken skin, corns, calluses, or ingrown toenails, especially after outdoor activity. Use a mirror or magnifying glass to see all parts of your feet. If you cannot see well, have someone help you.

Wash your feet daily

Use warm (not hot) water. Test water temperature carefully with the back of your hand to avoid scalding. Dry your feet well, including between your toes, but don’t rub too hard. Once your feet are dry, apply a moisturizing cream without perfume to keep them soft and prevent any calluses and cracks. Do not apply the cream between toes.

Trim your nails regularly

Cut nails straight across. If you have difficulty, ask a friend or loved one to help. Additionally, some Medicare Advantage (MA) plans provide an enhanced foot care program that can help. For those who rely on the ACA Marketplace for health coverage, some condition-specific plans, such as the Enhanced Diabetes Care Plan from Cigna Healthcare*, include foot care benefits for those with a diabetes diagnosis. If you have such a program, take advantage of it.

Wear shoes and socks that fit well

Buy shoes with good arch support and break them in slowly. Always check to make sure nothing is inside your shoes that could cause injury. Change socks daily. You may even want to consider socks made specifically for people with diabetes. And never go barefoot, even inside.

Contact a health care provider

If you are having foot problems, contact your primary care physician. They may send you to a foot care specialist, called a podiatrist. Early treatment, even for minor problems, can help prevent larger problems from developing.

Remove any fall threats from your home

This includes clutter, throw rugs, or cords that could cause you to slip or trip. Some MA plans have a falls prevention program to help you. For information about MA plans offered by Cigna Healthcare, visit CignaMedicareInformation.com.

“The message here is to not take your feet for granted, especially if you have diabetes,” Steinbach said. “By giving your feet proper care and attention, you can help prevent potentially dangerous injuries and infections.”

*Refer to plan documents for a description of equipment, supplies, and select tests and services that are covered through these plans. Enhanced Diabetes Care plans not available in all states.