Your screening and assessment have shown that there is a moderate risk of developing foot ulcers. The podiatrist will highlight your individual risk factors. These include:
- some lost feeling in the feet, known as neuropathy
- reduced circulation in the feet, known as ischaemia
- hard skin on your feet
- alteration of foot shape
Diabetes is a lifelong condition, which can cause foot problems. Some of these problems can occur because the nerves and blood vessels supplying the feet are damaged. This can be gradual and unnoticeable.
If your feet are in good condition, you may not need regular podiatry treatment.
If you follow the simple advice in this leaflet, you should be able to carry out your own foot care, unless you develop a specific problem.
It is essential to receive a foot screening and assessment from a health professional each year.
Good control of glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure help reduce the risk of developing further complications in the leg and foot.
Smoking affects the circulation and can lead to amputation. You should seek advice on how to quit.
The advice and information in this leaflet aim to reduce problems in the future.
Advice on keeping your feet healthy
Check your feet daily for any blisters, breaks in the skin, pain or any signs of infection such as swelling, heat or redness. If you are unable to do this, ask your partner, a friend or carer to help you or use a mirror.
Wash your feet every day in warm water and with a moisturising wash. Rinse and dry thoroughly, especially between the toes. Do not soak your feet as this can dry the skin. If nerve damage is present, you may be unable to feel differences in temperature. Bath water should be tested with a bath thermometer, or ask someone else to test it.
Toenails
File toenails twice weekly away from you. Follow the curve of the nail and make sure that there are no sharp edges. Do not cut down the sides of your nails as you may create a ‘spike’ of nail which could result in an ingrown toenail.
Moisturise your feet every day
If your skin is dry, apply a moisturising cream daily, avoid the areas between the toes. Avoid scented creams as these cause dryness.
Socks, stockings and tights
Change your socks, stockings or tights every day. Avoid bulky seams and wear them inside out to prevent pressure. The hosiery top should not be to tight.
Avoid walking barefoot
Walking barefoot increases the risk of injury to feet by stubbing toes or standing on sharp objects, which can damage the skin.
Check your shoes
Check the bottom of your shoes before putting them on to make sure that nothing sharp such as a pin, nail or glass has pierced the outer sole. Also check inside each shoe for small objects and that there are no signs of wear or creased linings.
Badly-fitting shoes
Badly-fitting shoes are the main cause of irritation or damage to feet. The health professional will assess your feet and may give you advice about correctly fitting footwear.
Avoiding slip on shoes and slippers will benefit your feet, resulting in less friction.
Minor cuts and blisters
Check your feet daily using a mirror if needed. Any breaks in the skin, minor cuts or blisters should be covered with a sterile dressing. Do not burst blisters. Contact your podiatry department or GP if you have concerns.
Hard skin and corns
The podiatrist will provide treatment and advice on self-care where necessary.
Over-the-counter treatments
Never use over-the-counter treatments such as, corn or verruca treatments, as they contain acid which can damage the skin and create wounds.
Avoid high or low temperatures
Wear socks if your feet are cold and never sit with your feet in front of heaters. Always remove hot water bottles or heating pads from your bed before getting in.
If you discover any problems with your feet, contact your podiatry department or GP immediately.
Remember, any delay in getting advice or treatment when you have a problem can lead to serious problems.
Contact Doncaster podiatry foot protection service
Cantley Health Centre
Middleham Road
Cantley
Doncaster
South Yorkshire
DN4 6ED
Telephone: 03000 211550
Email: rdash.podiatryreferrals@nhs.net
Document control
Leaflet information
This information is correct at the time of publishing
April 2017.
Document reference: DP7062/07.17
Page last reviewed: February 06, 2024
Next review due: February 06, 2025