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FOOTCARE & DIABETES
Wash your feet daily in cool water, paying careful attention to cleaning between your toes. Use a basin to do this, performing this enables you to thoroughly check your feet for cuts or abrasions which in some people with diabetes can go unnoticed due to sensory loss. Change to clean socks/stockings daily (see ‘Thera-socks’ under ’socks’ in the catalogue as an excellent product to help prevent blistering or potential friction ulcers) If your skin is dry ‘Callusan Extra’ is a light mousse that can be used to soften dry areas. ‘Flexitol’ heel balm is a useful product to treat cracking and fissuring of the skin which could ultimately allow bacteria to enter the skin breaks. (see ‘Skin Care’ in the Catalogue) Talcum powder can be used sparingly. Fungal infections should be dealt with speedily using ‘Lamisil’ Powder spray or cream version (see ‘athletes foot’ in the Catalogue) Please remember that good foot hygiene accompanied by examination is important and should always be completed daily.
Leather lace–up shoes/training shoes are recommended, they hold the feet firmly in place and prevent the foot from sliding forward. When purchasing new shoes ask for your feet to be measured each time, there may be some changes from the last time. Remember to check length, width and see that there is enough depth in the toe area. Protect the sole of your feet with a long lasting shock absorbing insole (see ‘PPT Ultralux insoles’ under ‘insoles’ in the catalogue)
Awareness of heat and cold can also sometimes be diminished and circulation less efficient than a non-diabetic, so attention should be paid to avoiding overheated baths, sitting too close to a fire and keeping a hot water bottle in bed.
Cutting instruments should never be used on corns or callouses by individuals with diabetes, also never use corn paints/plasters, they contain strong acids which are very dangerous. Always seek the attention of the Chiropodist/Podiatrist. Cut your toe nails straight across using quality nail clippers (see ‘Nail Care’ in the Catalogue) paying careful attention to filing any sharp edges to prevent damage to the neighbouring toes. Any minor injuries that do not appear to respond to your own treatment, should be shown immediately to your Chiropodist/Podiatrist as even a mild infection can upset your diabetes. If you notice a change of colour, pain, throbbing, swelling or itching, in the foot, or a discharge coming from a break in the skin, from a corn or under a toe-nail consult your Podiatry Clinic or doctor immediately.
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