Diabetic Foot Wound Care
Diabetics are more likely to have foot problems and diabetic wounds than non-diabetics and, because diabetes can cause nerve damage, they may not notice foot injuries until severe damage or infection develops. As a result, foot care is a very important part of a diabetic’s daily routine. A good foot care routine should include:
- Washing your feet daily, drying between toes and using moisturizer (but not between toes). Power use should be avoided.
- Making sure shoes fit properly and have support to protect your toes.
- Wearing absorbent socks and changing them as needed
- Being active, and informing your physician of your activity
- Regularly checking the skin of the feet
- Avoiding heating pads and soaking your feet
- Seeking medical help at any sign of a blister or change in appearance of your feet
- Seeking and keeping follow-up appointments related to health conditions
It is also prudent to avoid going barefoot, wearing socks with holes in them or having anyone other than a physician shave calluses.
Learn more about how to manage your diabetes with diabetes education from SOMC.
