Our resource hub is home to a wealth of articles, stories and videos about managing and living with type 1 diabetes.
Place your order for our free information packs that support adults and children who have been recently diagnosed.
Our researchers are working on different ways to develop a cure for type 1 diabetes - from growing insulin-producing beta cells in labs to hacking the immune system.
Learn about the technologies that can deliver insulin automatically when needed. And discover the next generation of insulins that are currently being developed.
You could win a cash prize of up to £25,000 when you play the Breakthrough T1D lottery. As well as the chance to win great prizes, you’ll also help fund our research to find a cure for type 1 diabetes.
Choose from a selection of modern and traditional designs in single or twin packs to support type 1 diabetes research this Christmas. Shop online and get fast delivery.
The announcement is the biggest treatment breakthrough for type 1 diabetes since the discovery of insulin.
This World Diabetes Day, we’re inviting you to celebrate by wearing your most joyful, whimsical and downright wonderful outfits.
We provide a wealth of information and free resources to help you support and empower your patients or students.
Take our free course for schools to learn more about supporting pupils with type 1 diabetes in educational settings.
JDRF has now rebranded to Breakthrough T1D. Our name has changed, our mission has not.
Home > Knowledge & support > Type 1 complications > Foot problems
If you get a wound or a cut on your foot, you might not notice. These can develop into ulcers and infections. In the worst cases, this could lead to an amputation. But there are simple things you can do to help catch any issues early.
Looking at your feet every day and trying to keep your blood glucose levels in your target range as much as possible can help prevent problems.
Take the time to check your feet every day if you can. If you notice any changes to your feet, no matter how small, speak to your GP. If you have a foot care or podiatry team, you can contact them for advice.
Look out for:
If you notice that your foot has changed shape or colour, or has become red, hot and swollen, speak to your GP or foot team straight away.
If you do notice a problem with your feet, it’s important to get help. Take the weight off your foot and contact your GP or foot protection team straight away. Getting help early can avoid serious complications.
“Each year you’ll receive an appointment to have your feet checked. The team will check the condition of your feet, test the sensation and feel your pulses to assess blood circulation.” James Ridgeway, Diabetes Specialist Nurse.
If you can, check your feet daily as it can help you spot any changes or injuries that need to be treated.
Other things you can do include:
Keep your blood glucose levels within your target range as best you can and try to manage your cholesterol and blood pressure. Stay as active as possible and eat a healthy diet.
Your GP, podiatrist or hospital diabetes foot service will advise you what to do if you find any problems with your feet. They may be able to give you some treatments or you may be admitted into hospital for further care.
If you experience any symptoms of nerve damage, speak to your GP or Diabetes Healthcare Team. They can help you to reduce the risk of damage getting worse and give you treatments to reduce your symptoms.
Find out how we’re funding research to make type 1 complications a thing of the past.
Find out how to manage your blood glucose levels, count carbs and deal with hypos and hypers.
Find out who can help when you have questions about type 1 diabetes complications.
Learn to spot the signs of retinopathy, how to reduce your risk, where to go for support and what the treatments are.
Good dental care and support is important if you have type 1 diabetes. Because of the extra glucose in your blood, you’re more at risk of gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss.
When blood glucose levels are high for a long time, it can damage the blood vessels and nerves. This can lead to a loss of blood supply to the legs and feet. It can also cause problems with your heart.
People with type 1 diabetes are at a higher risk of developing kidney problems, called nephropathy. Learn about the signs, how to reduce your risk and what the treatments are.
Nerves carry signals between your brain and other parts of your body. Over a long period of time, high blood glucose levels can cause damage to your nerves.
Genetic studies have shown that the same genetic changes that increase the risk of type 1 diabetes also increase the risk of other autoimmune conditions.