Diabetic Wound Foot Care

The Do's

• Wash and carefully dry your feet each day, and use a good quality moisturizer to keep them soft. Dry between toes, but don’t apply lotion.
• Inspect your feet for anything unusual, such as cuts, scrapes, bumps, an odd shape, or discoloration
• Carefully trim nails (straight across and not too short). Use a pumice stone or emery board on any calluses after your shower.
• Keep your feet warm by wearing socks and shoes when it is cold, and wear loose socks in bed
• Choose socks and shoes carefully. They should fit well and not cause pain, hamper your movements, rub against any part of your foot, or have tight elastic tops.

The Don'ts

• Don’t get your feet wet outdoors in the snow or rain, and don’t soak your feet.
• Avoid direct heat from a fireplace or campfire, heating pad, furnace vent, or radiator.
• Don’t use sharp instruments on your feet and avoid abrasive foot care products.
• Don’t use over-the-counter foot treatments containing acid or antiseptic solutions except under a physician’s direction.
• Don’t smoke, as it interferes with normal blood flow.
• Don't cross your legs while sitting.
• Don’t wear high heels or shoes that pinch your toes, and don’t lace shoes too tightly.