TAKING CARE OF YOUR FEET
People with diabetes are more likely to be admitted to hospital with a foot ulcer than with any other complication of diabetes. This is because diabetes may lead to poor circulation and reduced feeling in the feet. It is therefore important to understand how to take care of your feet.
10 steps to healthy feet
- At least once a year your feet should be examined by an appropriately trained person. This is likely to be done by a doctor, nurse or podiatrist. You should always take your shoes and socks off so that they can do a proper assessment. Don’t be self-conscious about your feet.
- After the foot check, you should be told what your risk is of developing foot problems.
- If there is an increased risk of developing foot problems, you will be referred to a specialist team for expert input.
- At home you should check your feet every day looking for signs of redness, pain, build-up of hard skin or changes in the shape of the foot.
- If you have lost any sensation in your feet you need to be vigilant: you may not feel if you hurt your feet – for example, if you are walking barefoot and stand on something sharp, if a shoe doesn’t fit properly and rubs, or if you burn yourself on something hot.
- Ask someone at home to monitor the feeling or sensation in your feet by doing the Touch the Toes test. This can be done between appointments and if you – or the person doing the test – notices any changes you should go to your GP.
- Be careful when cutting toe nails and don’t cut down the sides as this encourages in-growing toenails.
- Do not use corn-removing plasters or blades as these can damage healthy skin.
- Always wear well-fitting shoes that protect and support your feet.
- Keep your blood glucose levels well controlled.
Steps you can take to prevent problems happening
- Give up smoking.
- Keep your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels as near normal as possible.
- Eat a healthy diet which is low in fat, sugar and salt, and high in fruit and vegetables.
- Make sure that your feet are not exposed to extremes of heat or cold.
- Take regular physical activity, for example a brisk walk each day.
- Make sure that your socks and shoes are comfortable and fit well.
- Check your feet daily, including in between your toes.
- Attend your annual foot review (for those over 12 years old).
- Know your risk of developing foot problems.
- Many people only see a podiatrist (chiropodist) on a referral, so make sure you keep any appointments you are given.
- Your shoes should be: broad fitting, have a deep and rounded toe area, be flat or low heeled, fastened by a lace or a buckle to keep the heel in the back of the shoe.
- Always examine the inside of your shoes for sharp objects or stones before putting them on and replace ruffled innersole linings. Avoid socks, stockings or tights with wrinkles or prominent seams.
- Garters and stockings or socks with elastic tops should also be avoided because they may restrict the circulation. Never wear socks with darned areas or holes.
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