Information for diabetics - A step-by-step guide to healthy feet
A few minutes a day looking after your feet
can prevent a lot of problems in the future.
The following advice will help you look after your feet properly.
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1. Examine your feet
Damaged
skin can lead to infection. Look at your feet closely to check for
cuts and scratches, swellings and inflammation or discolouration. If
you can't see too well ask someone else to do this for you.
Feeling your feet will also help find lumps,
swellings and hot or cold spots. Rinse any cut or scratch with water
and apply a plaster. If you are unsure, contact your Podiatrist or Doctor.
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2. Wash your feet often
It is important to wash and examine your
feet every day. Use lukewarm water and mild soap. Dry them well but
gently. Don't forget to dry between your toes. Use moisturising
cream to keep your skin soft and supple but don't apply this cream
between your toes or it may make the skin too moist.
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3. Avoid burning your feet
Like many people who are diabetic you may
not be able to feel heat, cold or pain very well in your feet. You
must take certain precautions because of this. Take care not to burn
yourself on a hot-water bottle for instance.
If you use an electric blanket, remember to switch it off before
going to sleep. Don't put your feet too near a fire or against a
radiator. Check the temperature of the bath water using your elbow
before stepping into it.
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4. Toenails
Toenails should usually be cut straight
across. Don't cut or probe down the sides of your nails. If you have
reduced feeling or circulation in your feet, it will be safer to
leave this to your Podiatrist. As always, if you are unsure, ask for advice.
5. Corns and callous
Corns and callous should be dealt with by
your Podiatrist. Don't try to cut them yourself and don't use corn
remedies.
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6. Check your footwear regularly
Shoes should be a good fit, preferably
lace-ups, with soft uppers and roomy at the toes. This will allow
your foot muscles to work properly and prevent rubbing. When buying
shoes, always ask for your feet to be measured. Wear new shoes just
for an hour or two at first. Always change into clean socks or
stockings which fit well.
Examine your shoes, socks and stockings for damage each time before
putting them on. Cracks, small stones and nails can irritate and
damage your skin.
Always change into clean socks or stockings which fit well.
Examine your shoes, socks and stockings for
damage each time before putting them on.
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7. Don't smoke
Smoking can worsen circulatory problems. Ask
for advice and leaflets at your health centre on how to stop smoking.
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How are foot problems caused?
Diabetes can lead to nerve damage in the feet and legs, resulting in
a loss of sensation. Any trauma or injury to the foot (e.g. a tight
shoe causing blisters) may not be felt and could lead to more severe
problems such as ulceration.
Diabetes can lead to a restricted blood supply to the feet and legs,
resulting in cold painful feet. Because of this, injuries to the
feet may be slow to heal and can quickly become infected.