How to take good care of your feet in everyday life

Your feet must carry you throughout your life.

By having some good daily routines, you can prevent ulcers and other changes on your feet.

Check your feet every day.

You should look for hard skin and corns that have not previously been there.

Check if you have white or red pressure marks from shoes, socks or inserts.

You should look for blisters, cracks, and ulcers.

Also check for redness, heat and whether your feet are swollen.

If you are not able to see your entire foot, you can use a mirror.

Rinse your feet in lukewarm water every day.

Avoid hot and long foot baths as your skin will erode, become dry and more susceptible to infections.

Dry your feet well after each bath, also between your toes.

This will prevent your skin from eroding and from getting fungi between your toes.

Apply a good foot cream to your feet every day, however not between your toes.

The foot cream retains the elasticity of the skin and ensures that it does not dry out.

The foot cream also helps prevents your heels from cracking.

Always wear shoes, both outside or inside.

This will save your feet if you step on a broken glass or a splinter.

Always check the inside of your shoes with your hand before putting them on.

This is to make sure there are no pebbles or other objects in the shoe that might bother your foot.

Choose shoes that fit your feet well.

See what you need to be aware of in the film “How to choose shoes that protect your feet”.

Cut your toenails straight across.

See how in the film “How to cut your nails”.

Go to a chiropodist regularly.

People with diabetes have the right to an annual foot check-up with a chiropodist.

See the film “How do I get a subsidy for a chiropodist?”.

Remember: Preventing foot ulcers is a little like brushing teeth to prevent cavities.

As soon as you have incorporated the routines, they become part of your daily life.

For more information go to www.helbredsprofilen.dk