Diabetic Foot Care
The following are some essential guidelines for maintaining healthy feet in the diabetic population: -
Check feet every day, or hourly when wearing new shoes for sores
Check the inside of your shoes before putting them on
Always have a Podiatrist treat corns and callus; never use chemical corn pads
Always wear shoes and never walk around barefoot
Don’t wear tight socks or stockings
Don’t use hot water bottles, electric blankets or heaters near feet as you may be unaware of any potential burns occurring. To warm cold feet you should wear bed socks
If a sore is not healing or problems arise, promptly see either your GP or Podiatrist
Maintain well controlled blood glucose levels to minimise potential damage to nerve and blood vessels
Exercise daily, eat a well balanced diet and keep your weight within normal limits
Limit alcohol and don’t smoke
See your Podiatrist at least yearly for a foot assessment
