People with type 2 diabetes can get many kinds of foot problems. Some problems can quickly get worse. Foot problems most often happen when there is nerve damage in the feet or when blood flow is poor.
Look closely at your feet every day, and seek care early if you hurt your foot. You may want to have a foot doctor on your healthcare team. Ask your doctor to give you a list and explain the "do's and don'ts" of foot care.
Your Doctor's Role
Your doctor should give you a complete foot exam at least once a year - more often if you have foot problems. You should call or see your doctor if you have cuts or breaks in the skin or have an ingrown nail. Also, tell your doctor if your foot changes color, shape, or just feels different (for example, if it has less feeling or it hurts). If you have corns or calluses, your doctor can trim them for you. He or she can also trim your toenails if you cannot do so safely.
Caring For Your Feet
There are many things you can do to keep your feet healthy:
• Keep your blood sugar in control.
• Wash your feet every day. (Most doctors believe you should not soak your feet.)
• Dry your feet carefully, especially between the toes. If the skin on your feet gets dry, put on a thin coat of
hand cream or lotion.
• Do not put lotions or creams between your toes. This can lead to infection.
• Check your feet every day for sores, calluses, red spots, cuts, swelling and blisters. If you cannot see
the bottoms of your feet, use a mirror or ask someone for help.
• Don't put your feet into hot water. Test water with your elbow before putting your feet in.
If your feet are cold, wear warm socks. Never use hot water bottles, heating pads, or electric blankets.
• You can burn your feet without knowing it.
• Do not use chemicals on corns, calluses, or warts. Even store-bought medicines are often too strong.
• They can burn your feet. Also, do not cut corns or calluses yourself.
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