How to Care For Your Feet
Check your feet every day
- Look at the bottoms and between toes.
- Look for cuts, calluses, scratches, blisters, bruises, swelling, rashes, and color changes.
- Feel for hot or cold areas
Wash your feet every day with mild soap and lukewarm (not hot) water
- You may not be able to feel how hot the water is with your feet, so test it first with your elbow.
- Wash gently between toes and around toenails.
- Rinse and gently pat dry each foot with a soft towel.
- Make sure you softly pat dry the area between the toes.
Apply lotion if skin is dry
- Do not put lotion between your toes.
Use foot powder if feet are sweaty
- Use a mild powder.
- Rub or dust off excess powder.
File or clip your toenails only after washing and drying your feet- the nails are softer at this time
- File or clip (using a toenail clipper) your toenails straight across.
- Never cut or "dig" into the corners of the nail- this could lead to an ingrown toenail.
- Do not cut or file toenails shorter than the ends of the toes.
- Do not apply corn pads, wart, or corn removers.
Wear a clean pair of socks or stockings each day
- Make sure the socks or stockings fit well and are not too tight.
Do not wear knee-high stockings- they may decrease blood flow to your legs.
Wear shoes at all times
- Even in the house, you must protect your feet from injury.
Wear shoes that fit well
- Your feet may not feel pain from poorly fitted shoes, so use extra care when buying new shoes.
- Break in new shoes slowly.
- Check your feet often when wearing new shoes.
- Some people need special shoes. Talk with your diabetes team if you have wide feet, hammer toes, bunions, or corns.
Avoid crossing your legs
- Crossing legs can decrease blood flow to your feet.
Take your shoes and socks off
- The doctor should check your feet every time you go for a visit.
Wash a cut or sore with soap and water
- Do not use peroxide, iodine, or Merthiolate.
- An antibacterial cream may be used.
Don't place feet near heat source (Heater/Heating Pad)
- Burns can occur.
- If feet are cold, use socks.
Report to your doctor any cuts, bruises, or sores
- Call your doctor if you have any problems.
- Do not be fooled by cuts, blisters, or sores that do not hurt.
To find out more about Palomar Health's services, contact us.