Chapter 12 – SCHEDULE FOR PREVENTIVE DIABETIC FOOT CARE

1. Daily Foot Care Self-Exam

A. Inspect the feet daily for blisters, cuts, scrapes, scaling, and discoloration around the

toenails. Pay particular attention to the area between the toes. If your vision is poor, or

for some reason you are unable to reach your feet, have a member of your family

inspect your feet daily. If you notice any redness around the toenail, cuts, blisters,

puncture wounds, unusual swelling, call your foot specialist.

B. Do not apply non-prescription callus plaster, acidic callus remover, or any type of tape directly to the skin of the feet and legs.

C. Wash feet daily with warm water and mild soap. Test the water temperature with your elbow. Dry your feet thoroughly and completely, especially between the toes. Avoid

rubbing the skin. Apply a lubricating cream to feet, especially around heels.

D. Do not apply cream or ointment between your toes.

E. Never use strong antiseptic solutions on feet and legs, especially iodine, alcohol and

peroxide even if you have cuts or a superficial infection. These chemicals can destroy skin cells.

F. Avoid extreme temperature, hot or cold. Protect your feet and legs from sunburn or frostbite. Do not use hot water bottles or foot warming pads.

G. Do not wear circular garters.

H. Wear appropriately appropriate 100% cotton socks. Do not wear stockings or socks enhanced with stitching. Change socks twice a day.

I. Inspect the inside of the shoes before you put them on, inspect the feet after you take them away at the end of the day.

J. Don't smoke.

K. Do not walk barefooted and do not wear shoes without socks.

L. Avoid crossing your legs. This can cause pressure on the blood and nerve vessels.

2. The Monthly Diabetic Foot Care Schedule

A. Regular visit your podiatrist

B. Have your podiatrist give you a complete foot exam at each visit.

C. Tell your podiatrist about any changes in skin color, recent development of pain, or

abnormal sensation in feet such as tingling, burning, pins and needles.

D. Tell your podiatrist about any changes in the dose of insulin or other medications.

E. Tell your podiatrist about any changes in your foot shape, or any deformities in your

feet that get worse.

F. Ask questions regarding your daily routine foot care, as well as shoes, add-ons and

Socks.

G. Tell your podiatrist about any calf pain or cramp that gets progressively worse.

The following are considered diabetic foot emergencies:

A. Foul-smelling discharge: This may occur under a pre-existing corn, callus, or

blister, indicating a potential infection.

B. Red, swollen skin around the nail: Even in the absence of pain, this can signal an

infection or inflammatory process.

C. Dark discoloration of toes or feet: This is often a sign of compromised blood flow,

possible gangrene, or tissue necrosis.

D. Any foot piercing injury: Such injuries can become problematic in diabetic patients

due to delayed healing and infection risk.

E. Redness spreading up the leg: This may indicate a spreading infection (cellulitis)

and can be accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever or chills.

Each of these signs warrants prompt medical attention to prevent further complication