Healthy Tips by Medical Center Pharmacy

When you are a diabetic, foot care is very important. Poor foot care can lead to serious health problems. Diabetes often damages nerves and reduces blood flow, especially to the feet. The American Diabetes Association estimates that one in five people with diabetes who seek hospital care do so because of foot complications. However, most problems can be prevented by taking proper care of your feet.

Here are some helpful tips to follow:
Wash and Dry Your Feet Daily
    •    Use mild soap and warm water.
    •    Pat dry your feet; do not rub.
    •    Dry feet thoroughly.
    •    After washing and drying, use lotion to prevent cracking.
Examine Your Feet Daily
    •    Check the tops and bottoms of your feet. Use a mirror or have someone help you if you cannot see them.
    •    Check for dry, cracked skin.
    •    Look for blisters or sores.
    •    Check for redness or tenderness when touching any part of your feet.
    •    Check for ingrown toenails or calluses.
    •    If you have a blister, do not “pop” it. Apply a bandage and wear a different pair of shoes.
Take Care of Your Toenails
    •    Cut toenails straight across and smooth with a nail file.
    •    Cut after bathing when they are soft.
    •    Avoid cutting corners of toes.
    •    You may want to see a foot doctor to cut your toenails.
Protect Your Feet with Shoes and Socks
    •    Never go barefoot. Protect your feet by wearing shoes or hard-soled slippers.
    •    Avoid shoes with high heels and pointed toes.
    •    Avoid shoes that expose your toes or heels.
    •    Avoid tight socks.
Tips for Foot Care in Diabetics
    •    Do not wait to treat a minor foot problem if you have diabetes.
    •    Report injuries and infections to your healthcare provider immediately.
    •    Check water temperature with your elbow, not your foot.
    •    Do not use a heating pad on your feet.
When to Seek Medical Care
    •    Changes in skin color or appearance, such as redness, irritation, blisters, or infection.
    •    Deep puncture wounds or wounds that do not show signs of healing.
    •    Any sign of infection, including swelling
    •    Appearance of a callus or corn
    •    Open sores on the foot, especially if they show no signs of healing
    •    Dry cracks in the skin

It is important to remember to get a comprehensive foot exam by your healthcare professional every year. By following these steps and reporting any problems to your healthcare provider, you can prevent foot problems and improve your quality of life!

Additional Sources:
American Diabetes Association
www.diabetes.org