Daily Foot Care

Preventive foot care could reduce the risk of amputation by 44% to 85%. Patients inspect their feet daily and watch for changes in color or texture, odor, and firm or hardened areas, which may indicate infection and potential ulcers. When washing the feet, the water should be warm (not hot) and the feet and areas between the toes should be thoroughly dried afterward. Moisturizers should be applied, but not between the toes. Corns and calluses should be gently pumiced and toenails trimmed short and the edges filed to avoid cutting adjacent toes. Patient should not use medicated pads or try to shave the corns or calluses themselves. They should avoid high heels, sandals, thongs, and going barefoot. Shoes should be changed often during the day. Tight stockings or any clothing that constricts the legs and feet should be avoided. A specialist in foot care should be consulted for any problems.

Vaccinations

Annual flu shots are strongly recommended. People with diabetes should also discuss a single vaccination against pneumococci, the most common cause of pneumonia.

Aspirin

A daily low dose aspirin is advised for people with diabetes at risk for heart disease. One study found that 100 mg/day helped reduce blood-glucose related complications.

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