Examining feet first:
Diabetes can turn the smallest foot problems into very serious ones. However, these risks can be minimized by keeping a watchful eye on your feet every day. Here is a list of recommendation to help keep your feet healthy.
- Inspect your feet every day. Look for blisters, cuts and scratches
- Use a mirror to assist you when examining the bottom of the feet
- Always check between each toe
- Inspect the inside of shoes daily. Shake them out and run your hands through them to check for foreign objects and rough areas.
- Check for hair loss from toes and legs
- If you cannot see well, have someone else inspect your feet, trim your nails, and buff down calluses
- See your physician regularly, and be sure that your feet are examined at each visit
- Notify your physician or podiatrist immediately if you develop a blister, sore, or any other problem with your feet
General health practices:
Caring for your feet involves more than simply inspecting them. You should use the following practices as a guide for good health.
- Do not smoke
- Wash your feet every day. Dry them carefully, especially between the toes.
- Do not use hot water bottles or heating pads to warm your feet
- Do not soak your feet
- Avoid extreme temperatures. Test water with elbow before bathing.
- Trim toenails straight across
- If your feet are dry, apply a thin coat of baby oil after bathing and drying your feet. Do not use oils or creams between the toes. Consult your physician for detailed instructions
- Do not walk on sandy beaches or other hot surfaces
- Do not use chemical agents to remove corns or calluses
- Do not use corn plasters or string antiseptic solutions on the feet
- Do not use adhesive tape on your feet
- Do not cute corns or calluses. Follow special instructions from your physician or podiatrist.
- Inform your podiatrist hat you are a diabetic
The right footwear:
The correct footwear can prevent blisters, calluses, edema, and other problems. Following these guidelines should help you to decide what to wear and when to wear it.
- Wear leather shoes with large toe boxes, and keep them in good condition
- When purchasing shoes, make sure they are comfortable. Running shoes may be worn after checking with your physician
- Wear socks at night if your feet are cold
- Change socks each day
- In winter, wear wool socks and protective footgear, such as fleece-lined boots
- Do not walk barefooted
- Do not wear stocking with seams
- Do not wear garters
- Do not wear shoes without stockings
- Do not wear sandals with things between the toes
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