Tips on how to care your feet. - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer
If you are a diabetic you will need to give special attention to your feet twice a day.
You will begin by washing the feet daily with lukewarm water and soap. Angelique Morgan, Kingston-based podiatrist advises diabetics:
• Do not soak the feet. Dry thoroughly, drying between the toes in order to prevent fungal infections.
• Use a moisturising lotion to keep the skin supple. Do not lotion between the toes as this might also attract fungal infections.
• Moist skin reduces the chance of getting fissures which might break open into wounds and develop into calluses.
• Inspect the colour and texture of your skin. Note changes. Look for cuts, bruises, lesions and scratches. Check every day - morning and evening after bath time.
• Clip nails straight across and then file. Avoid long nails. If these get jammed or torn, they may create a wound in the nearby skin, which may take a long time to heal. For those unable to cut, filing is a safer alternative.
• Use the pumice stone to remove calluses.
Other tips:
• Inform your doctor immediately if the daily inspection reveals redness, swelling, blisters or sores.
• Change your socks and stockings daily. Make sure they are neither too big or small.
• Keep your feet warm and dry. If you can, choose padded socks and wear shoes that fit well.
• Never walk barefoot indoors or outdoors.
• Examine your shoes every day for cracks, pebbles, nails or anything that could hurt your feet.
• Do not use knives or razor blades to cut your nails.
- Outlook Team
