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diabetes: protecting your feet

overview

because you have diabetes, you need to be especially careful to protect your feet from injury. these tips can help.

  • wear shoes all the time.
    • if you don't want to wear shoes indoors, wear slippers with hard soles and good support. keep your shoes next to your bed. slip them on your feet as soon as you get out of bed.
    • wear protective beach or surf shoes when you swim.
    • wear shower shoes in public baths and pools. this can help to prevent athlete's foot, plantar warts, and other contagious conditions.
  • wear socks or stockings with shoes.

    wear socks without seams. avoid tight-fitting socks and garters.

  • wear socks in bed if your feet are cold at night.

    do not use a hot water bottle or heating pad on your feet.

  • always check your shoes before you put them on.
    • look and feel inside them for anything that could cause discomfort or injury, such as pebbles, a torn lining, or rough spots.
    • check the soles for any nails or tacks that may puncture your foot.
  • take care to prevent damage to your feet.
    • avoid tight shoes.
    • don't sit with your legs or ankles crossed.
    • keep the walkways in your home clear of objects that you might trip over.

credits

current as of: october 2, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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