DIABETIC FOOT CARE TIPS

• Do not smoke.
• Inspect your feet daily for blisters, cuts, and scratches. Use a mirror to see the bottom of feet. Always check between the toes.
• Wash feet daily. Dry carefully, especially between the toes.
• Avoid extremes of temperatures. Test water with hand, elbow, or thermometer before bathing.
• If your feet feel cold at night, wear socks. Do not apply hot water bottles or heating pads. Do not use an electric blanket.
• Do not walk on hot surfaces such as sandy beaches or on cement around swimming pools.
• Do not walk barefoot.
• Do not use chemical agents for removal of corns and calluses, corn plasters, or strong antiseptic solutions.
• Do not use adhesive tape on your feet.
• Inspect the inside of shoes daily for foreign objects, nail points, torn linings, and rough areas.
• If your vision is impaired, have a family member inspect your feet daily, trim nails and buff calluses.
• Do not soak feet in hot water or for extended lengths of time.
• For dry feet, use a very thin coat of a lubricating oil or cream. Apply this after bathing and drying the feet. Do not put oil or cream between the toes. Consult your physician for detailed instructions. Click here for info on Khepra Foot Balm.
• Wear seamless socks that fit properly. Socks must be wide enough and non-binding. Do not wear mended socks. Change socks daily for proper foot hygiene. Click Here to view New Balance Socks.
• Do not wear garters.
• Shoes should be comfortable at time of purchase. Do not depend on them to stretch out. Shoes should be made of leather for natural comfort and breathability. Purchase shoes late in the afternoon so you can be fitted when your feet are the largest. Running shoes or special walking shoes may be worn after checking with your physician. Purchase shoes from our staff pedorthist who understands diabetic foot problems.
• Do not wear shoes without socks.
• Do not wear sandals with thongs between the toes.
• In winter time, take special precautions. Wear wool socks and protective foot gear, such as fleece-lined boots.
• Cut nails straight across.
• Do not cut corns and calluses. Follow instructions from your physician or podiatrist.
• Avoid crossing your legs because this can cause pressure on the nerves.
• See your physician regularly and be sure that your feet are examined at each visit.
• If you develop a blister or sore on your foot, notify your physician or podiatrist at once.
• Be sure to inform our staff pedorthist about your condition.

*Reprinted from THE DIABETIC FOOT, 5th Edition, Levin, M.E., MD and O'Neal, L.W., MD, The C.B. Mosby Company, St. Louis, Missouri, 1993. (Parentheses added)