Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes can be dangerous to your feet - even a small cut can produce serious consequences. Diabetes may cause nerve damage that takes away the feeling in your feet. Diabetes may also reduce blood flow to the feet, making it harder to heal an injury or resist infection.
To avoid serious foot problems that could result in losing a toe, foot, or leg, follow these guidelines:
Inspect your feet daily. Check for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or nail problems. Use a magnifying hand mirror to look at the bottom of your feet. Call your doctor if you notice anything.
Wash your feet in lukewarm (not hot!) water using a soft washcloth or sponge. Keep your feet clean by washing them daily. Moisturize your feet but not between your toes (that could encourage a fungal infection).
Cut nails carefully. Cut them straight across and file the edges. Don’t cut nails too short, as this could lead to ingrown toe nails.
Never treat corns or calluses yourself. No bathroom surgery or medicated pads. Visit your doctor for appropriate treatment.
Wear clean, dry socks. Change them daily. Avoid tight elastic bands (they reduce circulation). Don’t wear thick or bulky socks (they can fit poorly and irritate the skin). Wear socks to bed. NEVER use a heating pad or hot water bottle.
Keep your feet warm and dry. Don’t let your feet get wet in snow or rain. Wear warm socks and shoes in winter.
Never walk barefoot. Not even at home! Always wear shoes or slippers. You could step on something and get a scratch or cut.
Take care of your diabetes. Keep your blood sugar levels under control.
Don’t smoke. Smoking restricts blood flow in your feet.
Get periodic foot exams. Seeing your foot and ankle surgeon on a regular basis can help prevent the foot complications of diabetes.