Diabetes can be dangerous to your feet—even a small cut can produce serious consequences. Follow these guidelines to avoid serious foot problems.
- Wash the feet daily in warm, but not hot water. Test the temperature of the water with the elbow or a thermometer – not the hand which may also be affected. Use soap, not detergent or an emulsion prescribed by your GP if the skin is excessively dry. Dry the feet thoroughly with a soft towel, dabbing rather than rubbing the skin.
- Examine your feet thoroughly on all surfaces, checking between the toes for cracks, corns, blisters etc. Use a mirror on the floor to see underneath the foot if this helps. If you cannot see well enough to do this for yourself , ask the assistance of someone who can.
- If you discover a problem, apply a mild antiseptic and a clean dressing and seek the assistance of a Foot Health Practitioner without delay.
- Change your socks or hose daily for fresh, clean items which should be free of darns, holes or prominent seams and which must not cramp the toes.
- Wear soft shoes which have sufficient room within and beware of discontinuities such as stitching and decorative features which might cause rubbing of the foot
- Do not go barefoot. Protect your feet at all times.
- Beware of burning your feet in front of the fire – you might not feel the heat. Beware too of sunburn on your feet. Protect your feet against the cold and chilblains.
- If you have difficulty cutting your nails you should seek the help of a Foot Health Practitioner. The risk is too great to allow anyone but a properly trained person to assist you in this matter.