Do’s
- Inspect your feet daily for any peculiarities or changes, especially if you are a diabetic. If you are unable to see your feet adequately, ask for assistance.
- Wash your feet daily, taking special care to wash between the toes.
- Just as important as daily washing, make sure that your feet are dried thoroughly. Damp feet in shoes can lead to infections such as fungal toenails and Athlete’s foot.
- Trim toenails straight across, not down into the corners.
- Keep feet clean, warm and dry.
- Apply lotion to the tops and bottoms of both feet, but not between the toes.
- See your podiatrist regularly. Prevention and maintenance are the best sources of healthy feet.
- Wear soft leather, closed-toe shoes that offer support and that are made with rubber soles and heels.
- Ask your podiatrist if you are a candidate for orthotics. Orthotics will improve foot function, offer arch support, and act as a shock absorber.
- Keep moving! A daily exercise routine contributes to a healthy body and mind.
- Walking is an ideal form of exercise for seniors.
- Keep blood circulating to your feet as much as possible. Do this by putting your feet up when you are sitting or lying down, stretching if you’ve had to sit for a long while, walking, having a gentle foot massage, or taking a warm foot bath.
- Wear support hose, which help control leg swelling and improve circulation.
- Avoid exposing your feet to cold temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes that a) fit well to prevent pressures that can lead to friction and infection, b) keep your foot structure properly aligned, and c) can accommodate the socks you usually wear.
- Check your foot size and shape. Feet change during the years and foot size can increase.
- Always try on shoes and choose the ones that fit. Ideally, shoe fitting should be done in the afternoon when feet are swollen the most.
- Keep your footwear clean and dry.
- Use handrails and canes when necessary. In the bathtub, use the grab bar.
Dont’s
- Don’t ignore the two things that enable you to participate in life’s daily activities.
- Don’t walk barefoot.
- Don’t use commercial corn pads or medicines. They often burn and irritate the skin, doing more damage.
- Don’t rush. Take your time. Society will wait for you. Rushing only increases your accident potential.
- Don’t cut nails too short. Nails should never be cut down to the flesh. See your podiatrist if you are unable to cut your own nails for advice.
- Don’t use bath oils, as the tub floor is already very slippery and take care after you put ointment on your feet.
- Don’t sit for long periods of time especially with your knees crossed, as it reduces circulation.
- Don’t wear flip flops or flat shoes as these increase risk of tripping, injuries and foot pain.