Monitor Blood Glucose levels and keep them within a good range.
Check your feet everyday for any changes such as cuts, swelling, blisters, ect. If you experience trouble checking soles of your feet, use a mirror or ask a friend for assistance. If you are concerned about any abrasions on your feet consult your GP.
Have a daily cleansing routine for your feet were the feet are washed in warn water and dried thoroughly paying special attention to the areas in between the toes.
Moisturise your feet to keep them soft and supple, by using a thin coat of moisturiser on the tops and soles of the feet, avoiding in between the toes.
If your feet are classed as Low risk then use a pumice stone to smooth corns and calluses. Do not use over the counter products or sharp objects on corns and calluses.
Cut your toenails on a weekly basis or as required. Trim the nail to the shape of the nail and file the edges with an emery board or nail file.
Protect your feet by wearing shoes and socks at all times. Never walk barefoot.
Wear supportive, comfortable and well fitting shoes. Check the inside of the shoe before putting on the foot to ensure the lining is smooth and there are no objects inside the shoe.
Protect your feet from the extremes of hot and cold: o Wear shoes on hot sand or pavements o Wear cotton or woolen socks in bed if you have cold feet o Refrain from using your feet to test bath water o Do not use hot water bottles or heat pads on your feet
Keep the blood flowing to your feet with the following advice: o Exercise regularly o Elevate your feet throughout the day where possible o Wiggle your toes, circulate your ankles for 5 min, 3 times a day o Refrain from crossing your legs for long periods o If you smoke - Give up!
The Diabetes and Footcare To Do List:
Invest in pair of nail clippers and an emery board/nail file if your doctor recommends it.
Buy soft, lightly padded seamless socks.
Buy a pair of supportive, well fitting shoes.
Give a way any shoes that don't fit.
Keep a pair of slippers at the bedside for when I get up.
Invest a plastic mirror to assist in my daily foot checks.
Arrange for help in checking my feet if I can't manage myself.
Keep Doctors/Clinic appointments.
Ask my Doctor or Nurse to perform foot checks on every visit.
Start a fitness programme and follow it daily.
Quit smoking.
Develop the habit of sitting with legs uncrossed.
Rest and elevate legs throughout the day when possible.
Purchasing shoes:
Prevent any future foot problems by purchasing sensible and accomodating footwear
Shoes should have a wide toe box, with a low heel
Footwear should be supportive, have shock absorbing properties with an adequate amount of cushioning (good insoles) inside
When purchasing shoes remember that width is just as important as length
Laced shoes can be a good choice as they can be adjusted to accommodate the foot more effectively
Diabetic patients with neuropathy should have their shoes fitted by a professionally trained shoe fitter or Pedorthist, to ensure that they do not choose shoes that will constrict and aggravate
