What can I do to take care of my feet?

• Wash your feet in warm water every day. Make sure the water is not too hot by testing the temperature with your elbow. Do not soak your feet. Dry your feet well, especially between your toes.
  
  
• Look at your feet every day to check for sores, blisters, redness, calluses, or other problems. Checking every day is even more important if you have nerve damage or poor blood flow. If you cannot bend over or pull your foot up to check your feet, use a mirror. If you cannot see well, ask someone else to check your feet.
  
  
  
• If your skin is dry, rub lotion on your feet after you wash and dry them. Do not put lotion between your toes.
  
  
• File corns and calluses gently with an emery board or pumice stone. Do this after your bath or shower. Move the emery board in only one direction.
  
  
• Cut your toenails once a week. Cut toenails when they are soft from washing. Cut them to the shape of the toe and not too short. Do not cut into the corners because you might cut the skin. Sharp edges can make a sore that can get infected. File toenails with an emery board. If you cannot cut your own toenails, ask someone who can or go to a foot doctor.
  
  
  
• Always wear shoes or slippers. Never walk barefoot, even when you are at home. Always wear slippers or shoes to protect your feet.
  
  
• Always wear socks or stockings. Do not wear socks or knee-high stockings that are too tight below your knee.
  
  
• Wear shoes that fit well. Buy shoes made of canvas or leather. Shop for shoes at the end of the day when your feet are bigger. Break in shoes slowly. Wear them 1 to 2 hours each day for the first 1 to 2 weeks.
  
  
• Only use medicines your doctor tells you to use.