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- Wash feet daily in warm water
- Dry carefully with towel
- Tinea Pedis, otherwise known as Athlete's Foot can
cause split skin in between the toes, so ask your Podiatrist/Chiropodist
for medication to treat this problem
- Use emollient cream daily to prevent dry and cracked
skin - do not apply cream between the toes
- Cut toe nails to the shape of the toe and file until
smooth
- Never cut down the sides of the toenail as this can
cause ingrown toenails, which can lead to infection
- Inspect feet daily with a hand mirror or with the help
of another person
- Look out for cuts or abrasions, as the individual may
be unaware of them due to sensory loss.
- Invest in pair of nail clippers and an
emery board/nail file if your doctor recommends it
- Buy soft, lightly padded seamless socks
- Buy a pair of supportive, well fitting shoes
- Give away any shoes that don't fit
- Keep a pair of slippers at the bedside for when I get
up
- Invest in a plastic mirror to assist me in my daily
foot checks
- Arrange for help in checking my feet if I can't manage
myself
- Keep Doctors appointments
- Ask my Doctor or Nurse to perform foot checks on every
visit
- Start a fitness programme and follow it daily
- Quit smoking
- Develop the habit of sitting with my legs uncrossed
- Rest and elevate legs throughout the day when possible
- Monitor Blood Glucose levels and keep them within a
good range
- Check your feet everyday for any changes such as cuts,
swelling, blisters etc. If you experience trouble checking
the soles of your feet, use a mirror or ask a friend assistance.
If you are concerned about any abrasions on your feet
consult your GP.
- Have a daily cleansing routine for your feet were the
feet are washed in warn water and dried thoroughly paying
special attention to the areas in between the toes.
- Moisturise your feet to keep them soft and supple,
by using a thin coat of moisturiser on the tops and soles
of the feet, avoiding in between the toes.
- If your feet are classed as Low risk then use a pumice
stone to smooth corns and calluses. Do not use over the
counter products or sharp objects on corns and calluses.
- Cut your toenails on a weekly basis or as required.
Trim the nail to the shape of the nail and file the edges
with an emery board or nail file.
- Protect your feet by wearing shoes and socks at all
times. Never walk barefoot.
- Wear supportive, comfortable and well fitting shoes.
Check the inside of the shoe before putting on the foot
to ensure the lining is smooth and there are no objects
inside the shoe.
- Protect your feet from the extremes of hot and cold:
o Wear shoes on hot sand or pavements
o Wear cotton or woolen socks in bed if you have cold
feet
o Refrain from using your feet to test bath water
o Do not use hot water bottles or heat pads on your feet
- Keep the blood flowing to your feet with the following
advice:
o Exercise regularly
o Elevate your feet throughout the day where possible
o Wiggle your toes, circulate your ankles for 5 min, 3
times a day
o Refrain from crossing your legs for long periods
o If you smoke - Give up!
- Prevent any future foot problems by purchasing
sensible and accommodating footwear
- Shoes should have a wide toe box, with low heel
- Footwear should be supportive, have shock absorbing
properties with an adequate amount of cushioning (good
insoles) inside
- When purchasing shoes remember that width is just as
important as length
- Laced shoes can be a good choice as they can be adjusted
to accommodate the foot more effectively
- Diabetic patients with neuropathy should have their
shoes fitted by a professionally trained shoe fitter or
Pedorthist, to ensure that they do not choose shoes that
will constrict and aggravate the foot
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