Diabetes Foot Care Tips
o Be certain to check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, red spots, and swelling. Be certain to check the bottoms of your feet, too – use a mirror, or ask a family member for help when you have trouble seeing.
o Wash your feet every day in warm – not hot – water. Dry your feet well. Be sure to dry between the toes.
o Be sure to keep the skin soft and smooth. Rub a thin coat of skin lotion over the tops and bottoms of your feet, but not between your toes.
o If you are able to see and reach your toenails, trim them weekly or as needed. Trim your toenails straight across and file the edges with an emery board or nail file. If you cannot see your toenails or you see blood when you trim them, contact your healthcare provider.
o Wear shoes and socks at all times. Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and protect your feet.
o Make sure to always feel inside your footwear before you put them on each time to make sure the lining is smooth and there is nothing inside the shoe.
o Protect your feet from hot and cold. Wear footwear at the beach or on hot pavement. Wear socks at night if your fe
o Do not test bath water with your feet. Do not use hot water bottles or heating pads on your feet.
o Have your provider or nurse check your bare feet. Remember that you might not feel the pain of an injury.
o Call your provider right away if you find a cut, sore, blister, or bruise on your foot that doesn’t start to heal after a few days.
o Follow your provider’s advice about foot care.
o Be certain to keep the blood flowing to your feet. Be certain to put your feet up when sitting, on a footrest or another chair. Wiggle your toes and move your ankles up and down for 5 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day. Do not cross your legs for long periods of time.
o Be physically active. Talk with your healthcare team about which physical activities are best for you.
o Be certain to get started now. Start taking good care of your feet today.
o Be certain to set a time every day to check your feet.
o Make sure to take care of your diabetes. Make sure to work with your healthcare team to manage your blood sugar.
o Consult with your health care team or diabetes educator when you have questions about your foot care.