DIABETIC FOOTWEAR

DOs
A simple regimen of daily foot care for people with diabetes is crucial for lessening or preventing foot problems. The basic essentials of foot care include foot hygiene, foot inspection, and appropriate footwear.

• Inspect your feet daily for blisters, cuts and scratches. Always check between your toes.
• Wash your feet daily. Dry carefully.
• Avoid extreme temperatures. Test water with your hands or elbow before bathing.
• If your feet feel cold at night, wear socks.
• Inspect the insides of your shoes daily for foreign objects, and rough areas.
• For dry feet, use a very thin coat of lubricating oil such as baby oil. Apply this after bathing and drying your feet.
• Shoes should be fitted by a foot care specialist and be comfortable at the time of purchase.
• See your physician regularly and be sure to have your feet examined at each visit.
  

DO NOTs
Just as important as things you must do everyday, are the following things that you should NOT DO:

• DO NOT smoke or drink alcohol.
• DO NOT go barefoot, especially on hot surfaces such as the beach or cement around swimming pools.
• DO NOT wear shoeswithout socks or stockings.
• DO NOT wear sandals with thongs between the toes.
• DO NOT sit with your legs crossed or sleep with your ankles crossed. This can cause pressure on the nerves and blood vessels.
• DO NOT use adhesive tape on your feet.
• DO NOT apply heat to your feet, such as hot water bottles or heating pads.
• DO NOT try to remove corns or calluses on your own. See a foot care specialist.
• DO NOT use oil or cream between your toes.