Care of the feet in diabetes
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Prevention is better than cure of foot ulcers. General care of the feet in diabetic patients has been shown to reduce the formation of ulcers - this usually goes hand-in-hand with good diabetic control. Poor control impairs wound healing.
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Do not walk barefoot. | |
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Wash your feet daily with soap and warm water. Dry well with a soft towel - especially between the toes. | |
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Check your feet daily for skin cracks and blisters - especially between the toes. You may need to use a mirror or get someone else to look for you. | |
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Check that your shoes are the correct size - not too tight and not too loose. Take special care with new shoes. Check your shoes for loose objects or roughness. | |
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Get a chiropodist to look at your toenails regularly. Long toenails will dig into the neighbouring toe when wearing shoes leading to ulcers. | |
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Do not sit too close to the fire or radiator and do not use a hot water bottle in bed. | |
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Change socks/stockings daily. | |
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Do not use corn plasters or paints - visit the chiropodist regularly. | |
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If an ulcer does develop, seek medical attention immediately. | |
Control your other risk factors - stop smoking, have your blood pressure checked regularly, control your blood sugars carefully and have your cholesterol checked. |
Studies have shown that looking after your feet properly can reduce the risk of ulceration by 85%.
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This advise list appears in the BMJ book: ABC of Vascular Diseases Ed JHN Wolfe 1992 (www.bmj.com)