Caring for the Diabetic Foot: Personal Hygiene: by Julia Franklin
Wash your feet daily with mild soap and warm water. DO NOT SOAK THEM. Never use Epsom Salts or Washing Soda in a footbath. Dry feet carefully, especially between the toes, which is where germs such as Athlete’s Foot can easily breed. Use a soft towel and a gentle blotting action. Always apply a good quality non-medicated moisturising cream. If you wish to use talcum powder, choose a non-medicated one such as Baby Powder. Apply it in the morning and wash off at night.
Get into the habit of examining your feet daily for any cuts, cracks, abrasions, corns or hard skin, any of which can lead to infection or a foot ulcer. Remember that you may not have full feeling in your feet, which is why it is important to LOOK!
If any of these are present, bathe with a mild antiseptic, apply a sterile dressing and see your Chiropodist/Podiatrist or Doctor as soon as you can. Remember – prompt action can avoid a lot of serious consequences later on.
