For people with diabetes, proper
foot care is very important. Diabetics are often at risk of
poor circulation and loss of sensation in their
extremities. Improper footwear, poor foot care or injury
can, in the extreme case, result in amputation. If you are
a diabetic, please check with your physician for other
important information on maintaining proper foot health.
Some foot care tips follow on this page.
Medicare:
Medicare's Therapeutic Shoe
Benefit generally allows patients with diabetes having a
doctor's certification and prescription for accomodative footwear
one pair of extra-depth shoes and 3 pairs of diabetic inserts every
12 months as a covered 'Part B' benefit (subject to a 20% co-pay
that may be covered by secondary insurance).
We can handle all claims
processing, including billing any secondary insurance coverages
patients may have. Certification forms to establish
eligibility are required. Your doctor(s) need to complete
these forms annually for each patient. Please contact us if
you need a blank form.
Foot Care
DOs
- Inspect your
feet every day for sores, swelling, discoloration, cuts,
blisters. Use a mirror to inspect the bottom of the
foot.
- Keep your feet
clean. Wash with warm (never hot) water with mild
soap. Dry carefully, especially between the
toes. Use lotion or foot cream on dry skin but
don't use it between the toes. Foot powder
can be used between the toes if desired.
- Cut toenails
straight across and keep them trimmed. Contact your
physician or podiatrist if you need help trimming your nails or
need detailed instructions.
- Change socks or
stockings every day. Seamless fitted socks are
best. Avoid tight elastics.
- Check the insides
of your shoes before putting them on.
- Wear appropriate
shoes. Shoes should be the proper, size,
non-constricting and match the shape of the foot.
- Visit your
podiatrist or physician regularly to have the circulation
and sensation in your feet examined. Have your C.Ped. to
verify the appropriateness of your shoe fit because feet change
over time.
Foot Care DON'Ts
- Never soak your
feet.
- Never walk barefoot
anywhere.
- Never trim your own
corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, etc. These should be done
by your podiatrist or doctor only.
- Never use chemical agents
to treat corns or calluses on the feet.
- Never use hot water
bottles or heating pads on your feet.
- Don't smoke.
- Never wear shoes without
socks or stockings.
- Never wear sandals with
thongs between the toes.
- Never use adhesive tape
on the feet.
- Don't sit with legs crossed or sleep with ankles
crossed.
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