Foot Care Tips

Provided in conjunction with Diabetes Integration Project

 

Wash, Dry, Keep Soft

Ø  Wash daily with warm water and mild soap

Ø  Check water temperature before using to avoid burns

Ø  Dry feet well, particularly between toes

Ø  Apply a moisturizer daily but not between toes

 

Cutting and Inspection

Ø  Cut nails with nail clipper and file edges smooth with nail file.

Ø  Check feet daily for cuts, cracks, sores and red spots

Ø  Use a mirror to help see the bottom of feet

Ø  Clean minor wounds with soap and water and cover with band aide

Ø  Contact Health Care Provider if cuts don’t heal

Ø  Do NOT use over the counter products without talking to your doctor, nurse or diabetes educator

Ø  Do NOT cut calluses or corns with scissors or any other sharp tool

Ø  Open sores need immediate attention

 

Protect your Feet

Ø  Wear shoes that fit well

Ø  Check shoes for objects before putting them on

Ø  Do NOT go barefoot, wear cowboy boots, or high heels

Ø  Do NOT use heating pad or hot water bottle if feet are cold

Ø  Wear socks that fit well

 

If you have diabetes, you should have your doctor, diabetes educator or foot care nurse check your feet at least once a year. 

Please check the websites below for additional information on footcare:

CFCNIG (Certified Foot Care Nurse Interest Group) Manitoba http://www.footcarenurse.ca

CAWC (Canadian Association of Wound Care) www.cawc.ca  

NEFCA (Nurses Entrepreneurial Foot Care Association of Canada) http://www.nefca.ca