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FootcareLook after your feet - 10 Top Tips for a Healthy Foot1 - Wash your feet every day in warm soapy water (don't soak them, as this might destroy the natural oils) and dry thoroughly, especially between the toes. 2 - If the skin on your feet is dry, apply moisturising cream all over the foot, except for between the toes. 3 - Remove hard skin gently with a pumice stone, but not if it is over a boney area or joint. If this is the case, or if the hard skin is painful, consult a registered chiropodist or podiatrist. 4 - Trim your toe nails regularly, using proper nail clippers. Cut straight across, not too short, and not down at the corners as this can lead to in-growing nails. 5 - Keep feet warm, and exercise to improve circulation. 6 - Always wear the correct shoes. 7 - Treat any cuts and breaks in the skin promptly, and check for any usual changes in colour or temperature. This is particularly important if you have diabetes. 8 - If your feet hurt, something is wrong! You can help to keep a healthy foot by visiting a registered chiropodist/podiatrist for advice on how to keep your feet healthy. 9 - Shoes should be properly measured, comfortable, and easy to put on at the time of purchase. Don't expect them to 'break in'. 10 - A Foot has up to 250,000 sweat glands. Your shoes can absorb up to 60% for the moisture released each day. Wear alternate shoes each day to allow them to dry out properly. Additional advice for diabetics Being diabetic you will know how important it is to look after your feet.Many of the styles offered by DB Shoes offer extra wide and extra deep toe boxes making them the ideal choice for a diabetic. Most of the shoes are also suitable for orthotic insertion too; meaning that you don't have to compromise on style when needing to buy shoes suitable for wearing orthotics. Here are some diabetic foot care tips especially for you 1. Inspect your feet daily for blisters, bleeding, or lesions between toes. Use a mirror to see the bottom of the foot and the heel. 2. Have a family or friend check your feet if you are unable to do so. 3. Have regular foot examinations by your diabetic foot care specialist 4. Always remove both shoes and stockings when visiting your doctor. 5. Always wear well-fitted stockings or socks with your shoes. Padded hosiery may reduce pressure and be more protective. 6. Inspect the soles and inside your shoes for foreign objects before putting them on. 7. Shoes should be properly measured, comfortable, and easy to put on at the time of purchase. 8. Wear shoes with leather uppers and adequate room for the toes. 9. Change shoes every four to six hours. 10. In cold weather, wear insulated boots or heavier socks. Be sure the shoes allow enough room to allow for heavier socks 11. Do NOT walk barefooted in the house, outside, or at the beach. 12. Do NOT use hot water bottles or heating pads to warm your feet. Use warm socks instead 13. Do NOT soak your feet. 14. Do NOT use acids or chemical corn removers 15. Do NOT perform "bathroom surgery" on corns, calluses, or ingrown toenails 16. Wash feet daily and be sure to dry well between the toes. Apply moisturizing cream liberally, but avoid between the toes. 17. Test the temperature of the bath water with your ELBOW or THERMOMETER. Do NOT let hot water drip onto your toes. 18. Call your foot care specialist immediately if you detect a new lesion or if your foot becomes swollen, red, or painful. Stay off your foot until you see your doctor. 19. Learn all you can about your diabetes and how it can affect your feet. 20. Maintain good diabetes control and do not smoke. Disclaimer
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