Diabetic Foot Care

• High, wide toe box (high and wide space in the toe area)
• Removable insoles for fitting flexibility and the option to insert orthotics if necessary
• Rocker Soles designed to reduce pressure in the areas of the foot most susceptible to pain, most notably the ball-of-the-foot
• Firm Heel Counters for support and stability

• Loss of feeling in their feet
• Changes in the shape of their feet
• Foot ulcers or sores that do not heal

1. Manage Your Diabetes
   Make healthy lifestyle choices to keep your blood sugar close to normal.  Work with your health care team to create a diabetes plan that fits your lifestyle characteristics.
2. Check Your Feet Every Day
   You may have foot problems that you may not be aware of.  Diabetic foot care includes checking your feet for cuts, sores, red spots, swelling, and infected toenails on a daily basis.  Use a plastic mirror to check your feet if you have trouble bending.  You can also ask a family member to assist.  Call your doctor immediately if a cut, sore, blister, or bruise on your foot does not heal after one day.
3. Wash Your Feet Every Day
   Wash your feet in warm water.  Avoid soaking as this causes the skin to dry out.  Dry your feet well, especially between your toes and use talcum powder to keep the skin dry.
4. Keep the Skin Soft and Smooth
   Apply a thin coat of skin lotion or cream on the tops and bottoms of the feet but avoid between the toes as this may lead to infection.
5. Protect Your Feet From Hot and Cold
   Always wear shoes at the beach or on hot pavement and apply sunscreen on the tops of your feet for protection from the sun.  Keep your feet away from radiators or open fires.  Do not use hot water bottles or heating pads on your feet.  If your feet are cold, wear seamless socks at night.  Lined boots are good to keep your feet warm in the winter.  Do not wear socks with seams or bumpy areas.  Choose padded socks to protect your feet and make walking more comfortable.
6. Keep the Blood Flowing to Your Feet
   Put your feet up when sitting.  Wiggle your toes for 5 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day.  Move your ankles up and down and in and out to improve blood flow in your feet and legs.
   • Do not cross your legs for long periods of time.
   • Do not wear tight socks, elastic, or rubber bands, or garters around your legs.
   • Do not wear restrictive footwear or foot products.  Foot products that can cut off circulation to the feet, such as those with elastic, should be avoided.
   • Do not smoke as smoking restricts blood flow to your feet.  If you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol, work with your health care team to lower it.
7. Be Active
   Diabetic foot care must include an exercise program that is right for you.  Walking, dancing, swimming, and bicycling are good forms of exercise that are easy on the feet.  Avoid all activities that are hard on the feet, such as running and jumping.  Wear protective walking or athletic shoes that fit well and offer good support.
8. Communicate With Your Doctor
   Ask your doctor to check the sense of feeling and pulses in your feet at least annually.  If your feet show any signs of distress, contact a podiatrist as soon as possible.  Even the slightest problem can quickly escalate when it comes to diabetic foot care.