Foot Care Tips
Do s
- Look at your feet, including between your toes and the bottom of your feet everyday.
- Use a non breakable mirror to see your feet or ask someone to help you if necessary
- Keep your skin moist and avoid dry skin by using moisturizing lotions, creams or ointments formulated especially for people with diabetes.
- Working Feet is a great cream
- Call your healthcare professional at the first sign of a cracked callus, corn, blister or ulcer.
- Wear your special inserts, shoes or offloading devices at all times and have them checked regularly.
- Check your shoes for loose objects or rough spots before you put them on.
- Follow your diabetic diet. Drink plenty of fluids (unless you are on fluid restriction for other reasons) and take the vitamins, minerals and supplements your health care professional recommends.
Do Not s
- Do not walk barefoot, even in the house. Be especially careful to avoid hot sand or sidewalks. Protect your feet with sunscreen.
- Do not soak your feet. Wash them with warm water and mild soap.
- Do not wear shoes without socks or stockings
- Do not wear sandals with thongs between the toes
- Do not use adhesive tape on your feet
- Do not apply heat to your feet, such as hot water bottles or heating pads
- Do not try to remove corns or calluses on your own. See a foot care specialist.