Never wear shoes with thin soles, open toes, slippers or sandals
Always wear socks. Thick white socks are best to absorb perspiration, protect the feet, and show blood or drainage if a wound develops.
Avoid shoes made from stiff, synthetic material (canvas, vinyl, or plastic), or shoes with a lot of stitching, because this will not stretch to conform to your feet.
Choose laced shoes made from soft compliant material, with a firm sole and plenty of width and height in the toe box. People eligible for Medicare can get prescription shoes for very little cost once a year.
Inspect your feet three times a day including in between the toes. If your knees or hips are too stiff to allow you to see the soles of your feet, use a mirror. If your eyesight is poor, ask a friend, spouse, or family member to help.
Never walk barefoot, even in the house or bathroom. Frequently, diabetic people develop serious wounds in their feet from stepping on small objects in the house.
Moisturize your feet with lotion daily, but avoid getting lotion between the toes.
Do not pare calluses or trim thickened toenails yourself. Get professional help.
See your doctor at the first sign of trouble, such as unexplained swelling, warmth, redness, discoloration, wounds, bleeding, or drainage.
