Your feet absorb the impact of thousands of steps every day, yet foot problems can be surprisingly easy to ignore. Pain, swelling, wounds, changes in sensation or persistent changes to the skin or nails may all deserve attention.

Podiatry focuses on the health of the feet and lower limbs and can be particularly important for people living with conditions such as diabetes, which can affect circulation and sensation and increase the risk of serious foot problems.

Simple habits can help protect your feet. Wearing suitable footwear, checking your feet regularly and dealing with injuries or changes early can prevent minor problems from becoming more serious.

If you have diabetes or another condition that affects circulation or sensation, ask your healthcare professional how often your feet should be assessed.