A diabetes foot care test (or exam) is a regular checkup, often yearly, assessing skin, circulation, and nerve function using tools like a monofilament (for sensation) and tuning fork (for vibration), alongside visual checks for sores, calluses, and pulses, to prevent serious complications like ulcers, requiring daily self-checks and professional annual exams to monitor nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor blood flow (PAD).
What Your Doctor Checks (Professional Exam)

Nerve Function:
Monofilament Test: A soft nylon filament is pressed against toes and feet (with eyes closed) to see if you feel it, detecting loss of protective sensation.
Vibration Test: A tuning fork checks if you can feel vibrations on your big toe.
Pinprick Test: A blunt pin assesses sharp sensation.
Reflexes: Ankle reflexes may be checked.
Circulation:
Pulse Check: Doctors feel for the dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial pulses in your feet.
Temperature: They check for temperature differences between feet, which can signal issues.
Skin & Structure:
Visual inspection for dryness, cracks, calluses, blisters, redness, fungal infections, and deformities (like bunions).
Gait & Footwear: They look at your walking pattern and the wear on your shoes.

What You Do (Daily Self-Exam)

Inspect Daily: Look at your whole foot, including between toes and toenails, for any cuts, redness, swelling, or blisters.
Use a Mirror or Get Help: If you can't see the soles, use a mirror or ask someone.
Wash & Dry Carefully: Use warm, not hot, water; dry thoroughly, especially between toes.
Moisturize: Apply lotion to tops/bottoms, but not between toes.
Check Shoes: Ensure they fit well and feel for any foreign objects inside.

Why It's Important
Diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation (PAD), making feet vulnerable to injuries that don't heal, potentially leading to severe infections and amputation. Regular checks, both at home and by a professional, are crucial for early detection and prevention.

Risk Categories & Follow-up
Based on test results, patients are assigned a risk level that determines how often they need professional exams:

Low Risk: No loss of sensation or circulation issues; exam needed annually (or every 2 years in some regions).
Moderate Risk: Signs of neuropathy or poor circulation; exam every 3–6 months.
High Risk: History of ulcers, amputation, or multiple complications; exam every 1–2 months.