DO'S AND DON'TS FOR DIABETIC FEET

DO'S AND DON'TS FOR DIABETIC FEET
DO's for Diabetic
l Inspect the feet daily for blisters, cuts, and scratches. The use of a mirror can aid in seeing the
bottom of the feet. Always check between the toes.
l Wash feet daily. Dry carefully, especially between the toes.
l Avoid extremes of temperatures. Test water with hands or elbow before bathing.
l If feet feel cold at night wear socks. Do not apply hot water bottles or heating pads. Do not soak
feet in hot water.
l Inspect the inside of shoes daily for foreign objects, nail points, torn linings, and rough areas.
l If your vision is impaired, have a family member inspect feet daily, trim nails, and buff down
calluses.
l For dry feet, use a very thin coat of lubricating oil such as baby oil. Apply this after bathing and
drying the feet. Do not put the oil or cream between the toes. Consult your physician for detailed
instructions.
l Wear properly fitting stockings. Do not wear mended stockings. Avoid stockings with seams.
Change stockings daily.
l Shoes should be comfortable at the time of purchase. Do not depend on them to stretch out. Shoes
should be made of leather. Running shoes may be worn after checking with your physician.
l In winter take special precautions. Wear wool socks and protective footgear, such as fleece-lined
boots.
l Cut nails straight across.
l Avoid crossing your legs, as this can cause pressure on the nerves and blood vessels.
l See your physician regularly and be sure that your feet are examined at each visit
l Be sure to inform your podiatrist or chiropodist that you are a diabetic.
DONT'S for Diabetics
l Do not smoke.
l Do not walk on hot surfaces such as sandy beaches or the cement around swimming pools.
l Do not walk barefooted.
l Do not use chemical agents for the removal of corns and calluses.
l Do not use corn plasters.
l Do not use strong antiseptic solutions on your feet.
l Do not use adhesive tape on the feet
l Do not soak feet
l Do not wear garters.
l Do not wear shoes without stockings.
l Do not wear sandals with thongs between the toes
l Do not cut corns and calluses.
Follow special instructions from your physician or podiatrist
REMEMBER TO INFORM EVERY DOCTOR THAT YOU ARE DIABETIC
DIABETIC FEET