If you have diabetes, you are likely aware of how hazardous the disease may be to your feet. Even a minor cut can have major consequences. Because November is Diabetes Awareness Month, Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland is sharing his top 12 diabetic foot care suggestions with us today.

1. Wash your feet with warm water. Cleanse your feet by washing them every day with lukewarm, never hot, water.

2. Moisturize your feet on a daily basis. To protect dry skin from cracking or itching, apply a moisturizer. However, do not use it between the toes as it may cause a fungal infection.

3. Cut your nails correctly. Toenails should be cut straight across and the edges filed. However, cutting them too short may result in ingrown toenails.

4. Check your feet every day. Check for blisters, swelling, redness, cuts, as well as toenail problems, and contact your podiatrist if you observe anything out of the ordinary. This can help with inflammation.

5. Always wear socks to bed. If your feet are cold at night, wear socks instead of a heating pad or a hot water bottle.

6. Be gentle with yourself. Bathe feet with a soft sponge or washcloth and gently blot or pat dry, paying specific attention to the area between the toes.

7. Keep your feet warm and dry. Wear warm shoes and socks and avoid getting your feet wet in the winter rain or snow.

8. Never attempt to cure calluses or corns on your own. Never undertake “bathroom surgery”; instead, see your podiatrist for expert care.

9. Put on dry, clean socks. Consider buying socks designed specifically for diabetics. These socks are higher than the ankle, made from fibers that drain moisture away from the skin, and do not have elastic tops. Make careful to change them on a daily basis.

10. Never wander around barefoot, even at home! Wear slippers or Diabetic shoes at all times to avoid stepping on something and getting a cut or scrape.

11. Manage your diabetes. You can achieve this by monitoring and controlling your blood sugar levels.

12. Schedule frequent foot checkups with your podiatrist. Regular visits to your podiatrist can help prevent diabetic foot issues.