Here are some DOs and DON'Ts for good foot care

DO

• Check your feet and shoes daily (use a mirror if you cannot reach them).
• Remember you may not feel injury
  
• Keep you feet clean, wash well and dry gently especially between the toes
  
• Moisturise your skin but avoid but avoid the area between the toes as this is normally moist enough
  
• Wear shoes or slippers at all times
  
• Report any sores, swelling, cracks, corns, skin damage or change of colour IMMEDIATELY to your doctor.
  
• Cut you nails (softer after bath) to the shape of your toe. If you cannot cut your nails see a chiropodist/podiatrist.
  
• Run your hand around the inside of your shoes each day before putting them on to check that there is nothing that could rub against or hurt your feet e.g a piece of stone or sharp points.
  
• Wear well fitting shoes. Make sure they are wide, deep and long enough for your feet.
  
• Change your socks and stockings daily

DON'Ts

• Avoid extremes of temperature both hot and cold.
  
• Avoid very hot baths, put cold water in first then add hot water. Test with your elbows
  
• Avoid sitting close to fires and radiators
  
• Avoid hot water bottles. Wear warm loose bedsocks instead.
  
• Do not use corn paints or plasters to treat corns or calluses yourself
  
• NEVER use surgical blades or knives to cut your own corns off. Go to see a chiropodist/podiatrist.
  
• Do not walk barefoot
  
• Do not ignore even the slight injuries to your feet
  
• Do not dig down on the side of your nails

Next >> Complications with Kidneys

<< Back

|Learn about Diabetes|What is Diabetes|Symptoms of Diabetes|Diabetic myths|Screening for Diabetes|Types of Diabetes|Managing Type 1 Diabetes|Managing Type 2 Diabetes|Monitoring|Hyperglycaemia|Hypoglycaemia|
|Diabetic Diet|Diabetic Recipes|Complications with Diabetes|Further Information|Shop|