FOOTCARE & DIABETES

Wash your feet daily in cool water, paying careful attention to cleaning between your toes. Use a basin to do this, performing this enables you to thoroughly check your feet for cuts or abrasions which in some people with diabetes can go unnoticed due to sensory loss. Change to clean socks/stockings daily.

If your skin is dry ‘Callusan Extra’ is a superb and effective light mousse that can be used to soften dry areas, it’s a very useful product to treat cracking and fissuring in the skin. (cracked skin has the potential to allow bacteria to enter the breaks). (see ‘Skin Care’ in the Yourfootcare.com Catalogue)

Talcum powder can be used sparingly. Fungal infections should be dealt with speedily using ‘Lamisil’ Powder spray or cream version  Please remember that good foot hygiene accompanied by a thorough examination is important and should always be completed daily.

Leather lace–up shoes/training shoes are recommended, they hold the feet firmly in place and prevent the foot from sliding forward. When purchasing new shoes ask for your feet to be measured each time, there may be some changes from the last time. Remember to check length, width and see that there is enough depth in the toe area. Protect the sole of your feet with a long lasting shock absorbing insole (see ‘PPT/Plastazote’ diabetic specification insoles and ‘PPT Ultralux insoles’ in the Yourfootcare.com catalogue)

Awareness of heat and cold can also sometimes be diminished and circulation less efficient than a non-diabetic, so avoid an overheated bath (check with elbow before getting in) sitting too close to a fire and keeping a hot water bottle in bed.

Cutting instruments should never be used on corns or callouses, also never use corn paints/plasters, they contain strong acids which can be dangerous.  Always seek the attention of a Podiatrist.

Cut your toe nails straight across using proper nail clippers,not scissors, paying careful attention to filing any ragged or sharp edges, this will help prevent damage to the neighbouring toes.

Any minor injuries that do not appear to respond to your own treatment, should be shown immediately to your Podiatrist as even a mild infection can upset your diabetes.  If you notice a change of colour, pain, throbbing, swelling or itching, in the foot, or a discharge coming from a break in the skin, from a corn or under a toe-nail consult your Podiatry Clinic or doctor immediately.