Medical Information

Foot Care

• Check your feet every day. Call your doctor/podiatrist about sores, cuts, or cracks.
• Wash your feet every day with warm water and mild soap, but do not soak your feet.
• Put a lotion or cream like Vaseline or A & D Ointment on your feet every night before going to bed. Do not put lotion or cream between the toes.
• Wear comfortable shoes, not tight or worn out shoes.
• Never go barefoot, not even in the house!
• Do not use sharp tools on your feet. See your doctor/podiatrist about corns or calluses. Do not trim them yourself.
• Clip toenails straight across only. It is recommended that a podiatrist care for your feet.
• Do not use hot water bottles or heating pads on your feet or legs. Before taking a bath, test water temperature with your elbow.
• Take your shoes and socks off every time you visit the doctor or diabetes educator so they can check your feet.
• DO NOT SMOKE! Smoking damages the blood supply to your feet.