8.5.1 Patient recommendations for the care of the diabetic foot Listen
  • Wash the feet daily with warm water (37 °C) for a few minutes only. This should not be done if the patient has foot ulcers
  • Dry thoroughly between the toes
  • Observe your feet daily – if necessary use a mirror to check the heels and under the foot
  • Use an emollient cream daily – do not use lotion between the toes
  • Corns and calluses should only be treated by a podiatrist
  • Never use plasters or other products against corns
  • Care of nails should be undertaken in accordance with the risk group. Patients at low risk can groom their nails themselves.  Patients with moderate risk can groom their nails after training by a podiatrist and should be followed up regularly.  Patients at high risk should get their nails groomed by a podiatrist.
  • Never go barefoot
  • Buy well fitting shoes
  • Footwear should be inspected daily. Check for foreign objects.
  • Have several pairs of good shoes
  • High risk patients should get shoes in collaboration with the prosthetist, or have custom shoes made
  • Do not smoke
  • Know the significance and symptoms of nerve damage and arteriosclerosis
  • Know the significance and symptoms of athlete’s foot, corns and calluses, sores and infection
  • Know who to contact if you notice sores
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