It is very important for diabetics to take the necessary precautions to prevent all foot related injuries. Diabetics should?
1. Check Your Feet Every Day For
- Any cuts, scratches, blisters or any sores (including open wounds).
- Changes in skin color or dry and cracked skin.
- Look for any redness, swelling, drainage, bleeding or odor.
- Changes in temperature or feeling when your touch your feet.
- Look for ingrown toenails, corns and calluses.
2. Wash Your Feet Daily
- Use mild soap and Luke warm water.
- Dry your feet thoroughly but do not rub.
- Put lotion to prevent cracking of skin.
3. Taking Care of Your Toenails
- Only cut your nails after bathing because your nails will be soft.
- Only trim them straight across.
- Do not cut into the corners
- Best options would be to have podiatrist trim your nails.
4. Wear Comfortable Shoes and Sox
- Shoes should cover your toes and heels.
- Try to wear padded sox with no seam.
- Make sure there is at least 1/2 inch space in front from your longest toe to avoid rubbing.
5. Exercise Your Feet
- Exercise your toes by moving up and down will reduce pain and avoids injuries.
- Walking with proper shoes generally helps keep you healthy and also better for blood circulation to your feet.
6. Don?t of Diabetic Foot Care
- Don?t walk barefoot or high heel shoes with pointed toes
- Don?t wear new shoes for more than hour at time until your feet have adjusted.
- Don?t wear shoes that leave your toes and heels unprotected.
- Don?t self-treat any minor foot problems, corns, calluses, or ingrown
7. When to Call Healthcare provider
- When you see redness, sores, wounds or ingrown toenails.
- Increase in numbness, pain or changes in skin color.
- Any drainage, odor, swelling, bleeding or temperature changes in skin.
