People with diabetes have to be especially careful with their feet, as decreased circulation and other diabetes related conditions could affect overall foot health.

Diabetes may cause damage to your nerves so that you lose some of the feeling in your feet. It may also damage blood circulation to your feet. Both care and prevention are the keys to keeping your feet healthy.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Diabetic Foot Care

The Do’s

• DO look at your feet daily.
• DO wash you feet with soap and warm water.
• DO cut toenails straight across and not too short. Cutting too short may lead to ingrown toenails.
• DO apply cream, but not between the toes, where it may increase the chance of infection.
• DO check the inside of your shoes and boots before putting them on.
• DO wear smooth fitting socks; avoid socks with seams which may create a ridge in your shoe.
• DO wear comfortable, well-fitted shoes, which do not cause pressure in any one spot.
• DO keep active – walking is great exercise for your feet, and will help improve circulation.

The Don’ts

• DON’T cut calluses or corns – you may risk infection, especially if you cut too deeply.
• DON’T use medicated commercial products for removing corns and calluses without the advice of a health professional.
• DON’T go barefoot – minor injuries often result in serious problems for people with diabetes.
• DON’T smoke – smoking will cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing the blood flow to your feet.
• DON’T cross your legs as you may cut off the blood flow to your lower limbs.
• DON’T use a heating pad or hot water bottle, as you may burn yourself without knowing it.
• DON’T wear girdles, garters or socks with tight elastic.

The information herein should only be used as general information and not by way of specific recommendation or medical advice. Schering cautions that the information is in no way intended to replace or be a substitute for medical consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.