Self care of the feet for diabetic patients
Inspect
Inspect feet daily for checking for scratches, cracks between toes, blisters, corns, sores, temperature changes, color changes and swelling.
Your doctor should perform a foot inspection at each appointment.
Bathe
Wash feet daily with warm but not hot soapy water. Do not soak feet longer than 10 minutes. The feet must then be thoroughly dried, especially between the toes.
Moisturize
Apply moisturizer to the tops and bottoms of the feet. Do not apply lotions, creams, or oils between toes instead apply a foot powder sparingly to this area to absorb excess sweat.
Trim
Trim toenails straight across. Do not cut calluses or corns with razor blades, scissors or any other sharp object and also avoid use of chemicals. Only professionals specially trained in foot care should treat these problems.
Shoes and socks
Always wear shoes ad clean soft socks or nylons. Check the inside of shoes for sharp objects or rough spots before wearing them. Select shoes that fit well. Avoid sandals, plastic shoes, pointed toes and high heels.
Keep feet warm
Wear socks to bed if feet are cold. Avoid frostbite. Do not use heating pads or hot water bottles and do not warm feet by the fireplace.
Circulation
Avoid tight socks and other garments or devices that may impair circulation to the legs or feet. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. Maintain a healthy body weight and do not cross legs when sitting.
Injuries/infections
Report any injury or change in feet or legs to a physician so that treatment can be started as soon as possible. Start treatment for athlete’s foot at the first sign of infection.
Exercise
A routine of safe exercises helps to improve the circulation.
Control
Good blood glucose control, cholesterol management and blood pressure regulation helps to maintain healthy feet and legs.
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: December 15,2008
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