Diabetic Foot Care

It’s important to take good care of your feet when you have diabetes.

Look at your feet every day for anything different: blisters, cuts, scratches, red spots, lumps or sore spots. Use a mirror to look at the bottoms of your feet. If you cannot see your feet, have someone else look for you.

• Wash your feet every day
• Dry well between your toes
• Don’t soak your feet
• After washing, put Crisco shortening, mineral oil, vegetable oil or baby oil on your skin
• Wear clean socks every day
• If your feet sweat, change your socks often
• Don’t wear pure nylon socks
• Don't wear any socks that have holes in them
• Don't wear any socks that have been mended
• When you put on your socks, make sure there are no wrinkles
• Don’t wear garters with your socks

Because you may not be able to feel hot or cold with your feet, don’t use a hot water bottle, ice packs or a heating pad on your feet. When you are testing the temperature of water, use your elbow, not your foot or hand.

• Don’t go barefoot
• Don't wear just socks
• To make sure your shoes fit correctly, buy shoes in the afternoon or evening, since your feet are bigger later in the day
• Don’t buy plastic shoes
• Don't wear shoes that have a thong between the toes
• After you wear new shoes for an hour, check for any red spots or blisters; if you find a spot, don’t wear the shoes any more
• Shoes should have a round toe with plenty of room for your toes inside
• Shake out your shoes before putting them on
• Check for any sharp items sticking through the bottom of your shoes before putting them on
• Check your shoes for torn lining 

Keep your feet healthy by cutting your nails straight across. If you can’t see your feet or reach them, or have no feeling in your feet, have a doctor or nurse cut your nails. Don’t cut corns or calluses, and don’t use corn pads or remover. Never put any alcohol, peroxide, liniment, witch hazel, Bengay or other remedies on your feet unless directed by your doctor.

Have your doctor examine your feet every time you have an appointment. Call your doctor if you find a problem or something different on your feet.

Disclaimer: This material provides general information only. It should not be used in place of the advice, instructions or treatment given by your doctor or other health care professional.