FOOT CARE

Foot problems in diabetics :

• Poor blood circulation
• Skin infection

DO

• Wash your feet daily with a mild soap and dry well with a soft towel
• Examine your feet daily, especially between the toes for :
  • Blisters, sores, cuts, cracks or swellings (treat immediately)
  • Redness
  • Changes in temperature (your feet should feel warm)
• Apply vaselin cream or a lotion on dry skin
• Wear cotton socks/stockings and change them daily
• Check the inside of your shoes before putting them on - make sure that there are no small objects like pebbles or sand
• Trim toe nails straight across and not too short

DO NOT

• Never walk bare-footed - always wear proper-fitting shoes
• Do not sit cross-legged for too long. If your job requires you to sit for a long period of time (e.g. transport drivers, production operators) - STOP from time to time and exercise your feet to improve circulation (walk, swing your feet and wriggle your toes)