Diabetic Foot Ulcer Prevention

Prevention

To help reduce your chances of getting diabetic foot ulcers, take the following steps:

• Cleanse your feet daily and dry them thoroughly between the toes before putting shoes and socks on. Do not wear garters and tight stockings around the legs.
• You may want to use petroleum jelly or an unscented lotion to moisturize dry, leathery feet. Do not put lotion between the toes, since the extra moisture may attract bacteria.
• After cleansing your feet, inspect them daily for sores that you may not be able to feel. Use a mirror or the assistance of another person to see parts of the feet you may not usually be able to see.
• Your primary doctor should look at your feet and test the feeling in them at least once a year at your regular visit. If you find a sore at any time, make an appointment to see your doctor right away. You may be referred to a foot specialist or podiatrist for treatment of your foot ulcer.
• People with diabetes may have toenails that are brittle and difficult to cut without causing ingrown toenails. You may also want to have a foot specialist or podiatrist trim your toenails regularly.
• Buy properly fitted shoes. If you have Medicare coverage, once per calendar year Medicare (Part B) will pay 80% of the cost of a pair of properly fitted, custom-made shoes with inserts for people with diabetes. Costs may vary by state. The doctor who treats your diabetes must verify that you have a need for these shoes. Then you will need a prescription for the shoes from a podiatrist.
• Avoid smoking.
• Exercise daily, with the approval of your doctor, to improve blood flow and blood sugar levels.
• Calluses can increase the pressure in the foot and lead to foot ulcers. Have your podiatrist cut any callus once you detect it. This could reduce the risk of developing a foot ulcer.