Foot temperature monitoring guide for diabetic foot care
A handheld infrared thermometer and a simple routine can help people with diabetes spot inflammation early. This guide explains how to measure, what the numbers mean, and when a temperature difference needs action.
Why temperature monitoring helps
Inflammation often raises skin temperature before any visible sign appears. By comparing the same spot on each foot, a temperature rise on one side can prompt an earlier review and prevent a small problem from becoming an ulcer or infection.
What you need
- A handheld infrared thermometer (no special medical device required).
- A quiet place to sit with both feet reachable.
- A simple log or an app like PodiaScan to record readings over time.
How to measure
- Rest seated for 10–15 minutes so blood flow is stable.
- Hold the thermometer 1–2 cm from the skin in the same zone each time.
- Record the temperature for the matching zone on the opposite foot.
- Measure at the same time of day for consistent comparison.
Interpreting the difference
- Below 1.5 °C: normal variation. Continue routine checks.
- 1.5 °C to 2.1 °C: warning zone. Recheck within 24–48 hours and look for colour or sensation changes.
- 2.2 °C (4 °F) or above: high-inflammation alert. Examine the foot, review footwear and activity, and contact your clinic the same day.
What PodiaScan records
PodiaScan splits each foot into seven zones — six on the sole and one on the top of the foot — records the temperature in each, calculates the left-right difference automatically, and flags alerts. Home User readings can be shared with a linked clinic so the clinical team sees trends between appointments.