Healthy Feet

Foot care is important because diabetes can impair circulation and/or cause nerve damage and loss of sensation, which can lead to problems such as infection.

Check your feet every day. Use a mirror or the assistance of a friend or family member to check the bottoms of your feet. Look for calluses, cuts, sores, red spots, blisters or swelling. Touch or feel with your fingers.

Wear shoes and socks at all times. Do not go barefoot. Wear well-fitting and protective shoes. Before wearing the shoes check inside for objects and rough surfaces.

Wash your feet every day. Wash in warm water and do not soak your feet. Check water temperature with your hand before inserting your feet. Dry your feet well including between toes. Apply lotion to the tops and bottoms of your feet. To avoid lasting wetness do not apply lotion between your toes.

Do not self-treat corns, calluses, ingrown toenails or attempt to remove a splinter with a sharp object. Trim nails straight across and not close to the skin.

Have regular foot exams with your doctor or podiatrist.