How to Perform a Foot Self-Examination

A Step-by-Step Guide to Catching Foot Problems Early

Your feet are your foundation—supporting your body every day through walking, working, exercising, and more. Yet for many people, they’re also the most overlooked part of the body when it comes to routine self-care.

Performing regular foot self-examinations is a simple, effective way to spot potential issues before they become painful or serious. At Third Coast Foot & Ankle, we encourage all patients—especially those with diabetes, circulation issues, or a history of foot problems—to make foot checks part of their routine.

Here’s how to perform a thorough foot self-exam at home—and when to seek help from a podiatrist.

Why Foot Self-Exams Matter

Foot issues often start small: a tiny cut, a sore spot on your heel, or a change in nail color. But if left untreated, these minor problems can lead to painful conditions, infections, or long-term complications—especially for people with reduced circulation or nerve damage.

Regular self-checks can help you:

  • Catch signs of infection, injury, or deformity early

  • Prevent serious complications (especially if you’re diabetic)

  • Stay aware of how your foot health is changing over time

  • Know when it’s time to schedule a professional exam

How to Perform a Foot Self-Examination

You don’t need any special tools—just a well-lit room, a hand mirror (or help from a family member), and a few minutes.

1. Check the Skin

Look at the tops, soles, sides, and between the toes. You're looking for:

  • Cuts, scrapes, or blisters

  • Redness or swelling

  • Dry, cracked skin (especially around the heels)

  • Calluses or corns

  • Rashes or peeling (could indicate athlete’s foot)

Tip: Use a mirror to view the bottom of your foot or ask a family member for help.

2. Inspect the Nails

Look for:

  • Discoloration (yellow, white, or dark spots)

  • Thickening or brittle nails

  • Ingrown toenails

  • Pain, redness, or swelling around the nail edges

These signs may indicate a fungal infection.

3. Check for Swelling or Temperature Changes

Compare one foot to the other. Any difference in size, shape, or temperature could signal:

  • Poor circulation

  • Infection

  • Inflammation or injury

Note: If one foot is significantly warmer than the other, it may be a red flag for underlying problems.

4. Feel for Lumps, Bumps, or Painful Areas

Gently press on various areas: your heel, arch, ball of the foot, and ankle.
Ask yourself:

  • Is there tenderness or soreness?

  • Do you feel any lumps, nodules, or irregular textures?

  • Does anything feel different than usual?

Pain, even if mild or occasional, should not be ignored—especially if it’s persistent.

5. Pay Attention to Sensation

If you have diabetes or suspect nerve issues, check for signs of numbness, tingling, or burning. Use a soft item (like a cotton ball) to gently brush different parts of your foot and note any areas where you don’t feel sensation.

When to See a Podiatrist

You should schedule an appointment at Third Coast Foot & Ankle if you notice:

  • A sore or wound that isn’t healing

  • Persistent or worsening pain

  • Skin changes, swelling, or redness

  • Signs of fungal infection (toenail changes, peeling skin)

  • New lumps, bumps, or deformities

  • Numbness or tingling in your feet

  • Changes in how you walk or stand

Don’t Wait for Foot Pain to Slow You Down

Checking your feet regularly helps you stay ahead of problems—and keeps you on your feet, doing what you love. If something doesn’t look or feel right, early treatment can make all the difference.

If you’re due for a foot exam or have questions about what you’ve found, we’re here to help.

📞 Call us at 262-821-1588 to schedule your appointment.

Healthy feet start at home—and we’re with you every step of the way!

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