Diabetic Foot Care in Kelowna: What to Expect at Your First Appointment

If you're living with diabetes, your feet need care that goes beyond a regular pedicure. One small cut or overlooked callus can turn into a serious problem. That's where a Foot Care Nurse comes in — and if it's your first appointment, here's exactly what to expect.

Why diabetics need specialised foot care

Diabetes affects two things that matter for foot health: circulation and sensation. Reduced blood flow means cuts and infections heal more slowly. Reduced sensation means you might not feel a problem until it's serious. Add in the fact that many diabetics can't safely reach or see their own feet, and you have a situation where professional care isn't a luxury — it's preventative medicine.

This is why I trained specifically in Advanced Foot Care Nursing on top of my LPN. Working on diabetic feet requires clinical knowledge that a standard pedicurist simply doesn't have.

Before your appointment

Here's what I'll ask when you book:

• How long you've been diabetic and whether it's Type 1 or Type 2
• Whether you're on any blood thinners (this affects how we approach cuts and calluses)
• Any recent foot pain, numbness, tingling, or wounds
• Your most recent A1C or blood sugar control, if you know it
• Whether your feet have been seen by a podiatrist or physician recently

None of this is to make you feel examined — it's so I can give you the safest care possible.

What happens during the appointment

1. Full foot assessment

Before I touch a single nail, I examine both feet thoroughly. I'm looking for:

• Skin integrity — any cuts, cracks, blisters, or areas of redness
• Temperature differences between feet (can indicate circulation issues)
• Pulses in both feet
• Sensation testing using a monofilament (a painless, quick check)
• Nail health — fungal changes, thickening, or ingrown nails
• Callus or corn formation and where pressure is building

If I find anything concerning, I'll tell you. Sometimes I recommend you see your doctor before we proceed.

2. Safe cleansing and soak

Your feet are cleansed with warm (not hot — diabetics often can't feel excessive heat) water and a gentle, non-irritating solution. The soak is typically shorter than a standard pedicure, because over-softening the skin creates risk.

3. Nail care

Nails are trimmed straight across and filed smooth — never down into the corners. This prevents ingrown toenails, which can be disastrous for a diabetic. I use sterile, single-use or hospital-grade sterilised instruments for every client.

4. Callus and corn management

Calluses get reduced carefully with a scalpel technique — not grated or shaved aggressively. The goal is to relieve pressure without creating a wound. Corns are treated similarly, often with pressure redistribution advice.

5. Moisturising and protection

Feet are moisturised everywhere except between the toes (moisture there causes fungal infections). You'll get a gentle massage with a diabetic-appropriate cream.

6. Home care guidance

Before I leave, we talk about what you can do between visits: daily foot checks, proper footwear, when to call your doctor, and how often you should see me.

How often should you come?

Most diabetic clients benefit from visits every 4 to 8 weeks. Some need to be seen more frequently, especially if they have neuropathy or a history of wounds. We'll agree on a schedule that makes sense for your feet.

What the appointment costs

Mobile Foot Care ($65) includes a skin and circulation check with gentle, comfort-focused care. Call or message and Lisa will tailor the visit to your needs — there's no travel fee within Kelowna.

Ready to book?

If you or someone you love is diabetic and hasn't had their feet professionally checked in a while, please don't wait. The cost of preventative care is always less than the cost of a complication.