Foot Protection

Protection of one's feet is very important to decrease the risk of amputation when an individual has severe PAD. Below are a few important things to remember:

• Never walk barefooted inside or outside the house.
• Check your feet every day for sores. Look carefully between your toes using a mirror if you have trouble seeing some areas. Ask a family member or friend to help if you have any difficulty seeing.
• Avoid soaking your feet. This dries out the skin and may increase the risk of developing skin breakdown.
• Wash your feet with mild soap and water. Pat them dry, making sure that you dry between your toes.
• Be sure the water is not too hot. Remember that if you have diabetes you may not be able to tell the temperature of the water by putting your foot in first.
• Apply moisturizing cream to your feet except between the toes.
• Do not use over-the-counter callus or corn removing agents.
• Never attempt to clip or cut your toenails or cut on areas of your foot at home in "bathroom surgery." Get professional help.
• Be sure that your shoes fit well and are not applying undue pressure to any parts of your foot.
• Avoid cutting holes in your shoes, because this can make them slide around, causing pressure to other areas of your foot.
• Check your shoes by shaking them before you put them on, in order to remove anything that might have fallen inside.
• If you find that you are waking up at night with pain in your toes, in the ball of your foot, or in your heel that will feel better only if you get out of bed, see your doctor right away. This is a sign that your foot is not getting enough blood.
• If your foot should suddenly become cold, painful, numb, or if you have difficulty moving your toes, contact your health-care professional or go to an urgent-care facility right away. This could mean that your foot is at risk and quick action is very important.