o Be sure to check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, red spots, and swelling. Be sure to check the bottoms of your feet, too – use a mirror, or ask a family member for help if you’ve trouble seeing.
o Wash your feet every day in warm – not hot – water. Dry your feet well. Make sure to dry between the toes.
o Make certain to keep the skin soft and smooth. Rub a thin coat of skin lotion over the tops and bottoms of your feet, but not between your toes.
o If you can see and reach your toenails, trim them weekly or as needed. Trim your toenails straight across and file the edges with an emery board or nail file. If you can’t see your toenails or you see blood when you trim them, contact your healthcare provider.
o Wear shoes and socks at all times. Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and protect your feet.
o Make sure to always feel inside your footwear before you put them on each time to make sure the lining is smooth and there is nothing inside the shoe.
o Protect your feet from hot and cold. Wear shoes at the beach or on hot pavement. Wear socks at night when your fe
o Do not test bath water with your feet. Do not use hot water bottles or heating pads on your feet.
o Have your provider or nurse check your bare feet. Do not forget that you may not feel the pain of an injury.
o Call your provider right away if you find a cut, sore, blister, or bruise on your foot that does not start to heal after several days.
o Follow your provider’s advice about foot care.
o Make certain to keep the blood flowing to your feet. Make certain to put your feet up when sitting, on a footrest or another chair. Wiggle your toes and move your ankles up and down for 5 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day. Do not cross your legs for long periods of time.
o Be physically active. Speak with your health care team about which physical activities are best for you.
o Be certain to get began now. Begin taking good care of your feet today.
o Make certain to set a time every day to check your feet.
o Be sure to take care of your diabetes. Be sure to work with your healthcare team to manage your blood sugar.
o Consult with your health care team or diabetes educator if you have questions about your foot care.
