… Check your feet every day for cuts, cracks, bruises, blisters, sores, infections or unusual markings

… Use a mirror to see the bottoms of your feet if you can’t lift them up

…Check the colour of your legs and feet.  If there is swelling, warmth or redness, or if you have pain, see your doctor or foot specialist right away

…Clean a cut or scratch with a mild soap and water and cover it with dry dressing for sensitive skin

…Trim your toenails straight across.

…Wash and dry your feet every day, especially between the toes.

…Apply a good skin lotion every day on your heels and soles.  Wipe off any excess lotion.

…Change your socks once or twice a day

…Socks should be a synthetic material (not cotton) to avoid moistness

…Always wear professionally fit shoes from a reputable store.  Professionally fit orthotics may help.

…Choose shoes with low heels (under 5cm high/2” heel)

…Buy shoes in the late afternoon (since your feet may have swollen slightly by then)

…Avoid extreme cold and heat (including the sun.)

…Exercise regularly.

…Regularly see foot care specialist for advice and education

…Wear footwear at all waking hours

…Avoid seams in forefoot of shoe

…Always check bath water temperature with hands

… cut your own corns or calluses

…treat your own in-growing toenails or slivers with razor or scissors.  See your doctor or foot care specialist

…Use over-the-counter medications to treat corns and warts.  They are dangerous for people with diabetes

 …Soak your feet for extended period of time (i.e. no more than 20 minutes)

 …Take very hot baths.

 …Use lotion between your toes

 …Walk barefoot inside or outside.

 …Wear tight socks, garters or elastics, or knee highs.

 …Sit for long periods of time.

 …Smoke