Day to day foot advice for people with Diabetes

 

Always check your feet every day. Look for colour changes or damage to the skin. If you see anything unusual or have a cut that isn’t healing then contact your Chiropodist or GP.

Clean and dress any cuts, scratches or wounds. Diabetes may affect the ability to heal. Wounds must be cleaned by running water over the area of the wound. The skin must then be dried around the wound (not the wound itself) and a sterile dressing applied.

If you have a loss of sensation in your feet then you must always wear footwear as you may stand on a sharp object without realising it.

Always wear shoes that fit properly. If they are too loose they can rub areas of skin and cause damage. If they are too tight then callous and corns may form.

Never sit too close to a fire. Always remove a hot water bottle or switch off the electric blanket before getting into bed. If you have a loss of sensation in your feet, then you may not feel your feet burning.

If you have corns or callus visit a Podiatrist regularly. These are a sign of pressure and can turn into small ulcerations if left untreated.

Do not use corn plasters they can cause unnecessary damage if you have poor circulation.

If you are able to, cut your nails straight across or use an emery board. If you have any difficulties consult a Podiatrist.

Go for regular check ups once or twice a year so your feet are assessed for any risk of complications.

It is important that you ensure that any Podiatrist you use is registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC) and describes themselves as a chiropodist or podiatrist.

 

If you would like to know more about how the Earlsdon Practice can help you contact us here at the Earlsdon Practice by completing the form on our contact page