Care of the feet in diabetes

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.

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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%.

 

Mr. H.S. Khaira  MD, FRCS.
Copyright © 2001  [H.S. Khaira]. All rights reserved.
Revised: October 24, 2004 .

This advise list appears in the BMJ book:  ABC of Vascular Diseases  Ed JHN Wolfe  1992 (www.bmj.com)