Check your feet every day
You should check your feet every day for any blisters, breaks in the skin, pain or any signs of infection such as swelling, heat or redness. If you cannot do this yourself, ask your partner or carer to help you.
Wash your feet every day
You should wash your feet every day in warm water and with a mild soap. Rinse your feet thoroughly and dry them carefully, especially between the toes. Do not soak your feet as this may damage your skin. Because of your diabetes, you may not be able to feel hot or cold very well. You should test the temperature of the water with your elbow, or ask someone else to test the temperature for you.
Moisturise your feet every day
If your skin is dry, apply a moisturising cream every day, avoiding the areas between your toes.
Toenails
Do not cut your toenails unless your podiatrist advises you to.
Socks,, stockings and tights
You should change your socks, stockings or tights every day. They should not have bulky seams and the tops should not be elasticated.
Avoid walking barefoot
If you walk barefoot you risk injuring your feet by stubbing your toes and standing on sharp objects which can damage the skin.
Check your shoes
Check the bottom of your shoes before you put them on to make sure that nothing sharp such as a pin, nail or glass has pierced the outer sole. Also run your hand inside each shoe to check that no small objects such as small stones have fallen in.
Badly fitting shoes
Badly-fitting shoes are a common cause of irritation or damage to feet. The podiatrist who assessed your feet may give you advice about the shoes you already own and on buying new shoes. They may suggest that you are measured for special shoes to get on prescription.
Prescription shoes
If you have been supplied with shoes, they will have been made to a prescription. You should follow the instructions your podiatrist or orthotist (the person who makes the shoes) gives you. These should be the only shoes you wear. Shoes will normally be prescribed with insoles.
These are an important part of your shoes and you should only remove them if your orthotist or podiatrist advises you to. Whoever provided your shoes will carry out all repairs or alterations to make sure that they will match your prescription.
Minors cutes and blisters
If you check your feet and discover any breaks in the skin, minor cuts or blisters, cover the area with a sterile dressing. Do not burst blisters. Contact your podiatry department or GP immediately (contact numbers are over the page). If these people are not available and there is no sign of healing after one day, go to your local accident and emergency department.
Hard skin and corns
Do not attempt to remove hard skin or corns yourself. Your podiatrist will provide treatment and advice where necessary.
Over-the-counter corn remedies
Do not use over-the-counter corn remedies.They are not recommended for anyone with diabetes as they can damage the skin and create ulcers.
Avoid high or low temperatures
If your feet are cold, wear socks. Never sit with your feet in front of the fire to warm them up. Always remove hot water bottles or heating pads from your bed before getting in.
Have you had an ulcer before?
If you have had an ulcer before, or an amputation, you are at high risk of developing more ulcers. If you look after your feet carefully, with the help of a podiatrist, you will reduce the risk of more problems.
Spotting a foot attack
Is your foot red, warm or swollen? Is there a break in the skin or any discharge (or oozing) on to your socks or stockings? Do you feel unwell?
You may not have pain even with a visible wound.
If the answer is yes - contact your GP, Podiatrist or Nurse immediately (or a member of the Foot Protection Service).
If you are unable to get through, go to your nearest out of hours healthcare service or your A&E department.
