Take Care With Basic Care

Feet should be frequently inspected for changes, but diabetics need to be diligent in their foot care.

Feet are not that large and don’t change that much, so what do you look for when inspecting feet?

• puncture wounds
• bruises
• pressure areas
• redness
• warmth
• blisters 
• ulcers
• scratches and cuts 
• nail problems

Some areas of the feet may be difficult to inspect by yourself. Ask a family member for help or use a mirror to inspect feet daily.

Here's some basic advice for taking care of your feet:

• “Always keep your feet warm.
• Don't get your feet wet in snow or rain.
• Don't put your feet on radiators or in front of the fireplace.
• Don't smoke or sit cross-legged. Both decrease blood supply to your feet.
• Don't soak your feet.
• Don't use antiseptic solutions, drugstore medications, heating pads or sharp instruments on your feet.
• Trim your toenails straight across. Avoid cutting the corners. Use a nail file or emery board. If you find an ingrown toenail, contact our office.
• Use quality lotion to keep the skin of your feet soft and moist, but don't put any lotion between your toes.
• Wash your feet every day with mild soap and warm water.
• Wear loose socks to bed.
• Wear warm socks and shoes in winter.
• When drying your feet, pat each foot with a towel and be careful between your toes.
• Buy shoes that are comfortable without a "breaking in" period. Check how your shoe fits in width, length, back, bottom of heel, and sole. Avoid pointed-toe styles and high heels. Try to get shoes made with leather upper material and deep toe boxes. Wear new shoes for only two hours or less at a time. Don't wear the same pair every day. Inspect the inside of each shoe before putting it on. Don't lace your shoes too tightly or loosely.
• Choose socks and stockings carefully. Wear clean, dry socks every day. Avoid socks with holes or wrinkles. Thin cotton socks are more absorbent for summer wear. Square-toes socks will not squeeze your toes. Avoid stockings with elastic tops.”

Citation:
Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist. (2012). Diabetes and your feet. Retrieved from http://www.vittorifootclinic.com/library/1800/DiabetesandYourFeet.html

Image by Matthew T. Rader. (2008). My feet. Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/infinite-magic/497036269/