Diabetes & Your Feet

Diabetes affects the circulation and immune systems, which in turn impairs the body’s ability to heal itself. Over time, diabetes can damage sensory nerves (this is known as “neuropathy”), especially in the hands and feet. As a result people with diabetes are less likely to feel a foot injury, such as blister or cut. Unnoticed or untreated, even small foot injuries can quickly become infected, potentially leading to serious complications.

Daily Foot Care

1.      Wash your feet in warm (not hot) water, using mild soap. Don’t soak your feet, as this can dry your skin.

2.      While your feet are still wet, use a pumice stone to keep calluses under control.

3.      Dry your feet carefully, especially between your toes.

4.      Thoroughly check your feet and between your toes to make sure there are no cuts, cracks, ingrown toe nails, blisters etc. Use a hand mirror, to see the bottom of your feet, or ask someone else to check them for you.

5.      Clean cuts or scratches with mild soap and water, and cover with a dry dressing suitable for sensitive skin.

6.      Trim your toenails straight across and file any sharp edges. Don’t cut the nails too short.

7.      Apply an un-perfumed foot-care cream lotion  to your heels and soles. Wipe of excess lotion that is not absorbed. Don’t put the lotion between your toes, as the excessive moisture can promote infection.

8.      Wear fresh clean socks and well fitting Footwear every day. Whenever possible wear white socks – if you have any cut or sore, the drainage will be easy to see.

When to see your Doctor

If you have any swelling, warmth, redness or pain in your legs or your feet, see your doctor right-away.

If you have any corns (thick or hard skin on toes), calluses (thick skin on bottom of feet), ingrown toenails, warts or silvers, have them treated by your doctor, or a foot care specialist. Do not try to treat them yourself.

Have your bare foot checked by your doctor at least once a year. In addition ask your doctor to screen you for neuropathy and loss of circulation at least once a year.

Best Advice

Do’s

ü Do wear well fitting shoes. They should be supportive, have low heels and should not rub or pinch.

ü Do wear socks at night , if your feet get cold

ü Do elevate your feet when you are sitting

ü Do wiggle your toes and move your ankles around for a few minutes several times a day to improve blood circulation in your feet and legs.

ü Do inspect your feet daily and in particular feel for skin temperature differences between your feet.

Don’ts

Ø Don’t wear high heels, pointed-toe shoes, or worn out shoes

Ø Don’t wear anything tight around your legs, such as tight socks or knee-highs

Ø Don’t ever go barefoot, even indoors.

Ø Don’t put hot water bottles or heating pads on your feet.

Ø Don’t cross your legs for long periods of time

Ø Don’t smoke. Smoking decreases circulation and healing.

Ø Don’t have pedicure by non-healthcare professionals.