DAILY TIPS TO SAVE YOUR FEET
1) Wear shoes and slippers at all times- yes, even in the house.
2) Inspect your feet daily. Use a hand held mirror, have someone hold the mirror for you or have someone
else inspect your feet each day. How often? Every day. This is very important.
3) Do not routinely soak your feet. This removes natural oils and with decreased sensation hot water
could cause burns to your feet. Test your water first with a thermometer or your forearm.
4) After showering or baths, dry completely in between your toes. Increased moisture increases risk of
wetness, cracks in the skin and infection.
5) Do not apply lotion in between your toes.
6) Do not use heating blankets or warming bottles, again because of risk of injury from burns due to
decreases sensation.
7) In Minnesota it gets COLD! This requires layers to be worn (especially on the feet). Limit your time outside
to no longer than 30 minutes at a time. If it’s below freezing, I would suggest less than 10-15 minutes
outside. Frostbite is real and with neuropathy your feet are at risk!
8) Proper lighting in your home at night can save some curse word moments and prevent your toes and
toenails from injury.
9) Remove excess rugs to decrease falls and toe injuries. A loose thread on a rug could cut your toes or the
rug could slip as you step on it causing you to fall.
10) Wear properly fitting shoes. Inspect your feet for increased areas of irritation- redness, shiny skin,
painful areas and new callus (excess build up of skin) formation. Also, inspect your footwear for areas of
increased wear/breakdown. Visit a podiatrist (foot doctor) whom can refer you to an orthotist for
customized shoes. You may also require a referral to a podiatrist from your primary doctor.
11) A gentle reminder for diabetics: remember to test your blood sugar and write down each number/time
of day as instructed by your doctor. Be mindful of your diet, and take your insulin or oral medications as
directed. Remove those shoes and socks at each doctor