FOOT CARE 

Care of your feet is very important if you have circulatory problems of your lower extremities.  You need to take measures to reduce your risk of foot problems.  Three conditions can affect the health of your feet and legs—peripheral vascular disease, venous insufficiency, and peripheral neuropathy.

Peripheral Vascular Disease

Arteries carry blood from the heart to all parts of the body.  Peripheral vascular disease is a condition in which fatty deposits, called plaque, build up along the walls of the arteries that carry the blood to the feet and legs.  This is a gradual process in which the arteries narrow and may even become blocked affecting blood circulation.  This is especially common in people with diabetes and in people who smoke.  Lack of proper attention to the feet and legs and poor circulation are the leading causes of amputation for diabetics.

Venous Insufficiency

Veins carry blood back to the heart from all parts of the body.  Venous insufficiency is a condition in which the veins are unable to direct the blood from the lower extremities to the heart.  This can lead to a buildup of fluid in the legs, which is called edema.  This can occur in patients with varicose veins and does not necessarily imply a heart problem.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which the nerves in your feet and/or legs are not working properly.  Symptoms may include numbness, tingling or pain in the feet and legs.  There are many causes for this condition, of which diabetes is the most common.

What Are the Steps that I Should Follow for Good Foot Care?

If you have circulation problems or peripheral neuropathy, it is important that you avoid injury to your feet.  Follow these steps carefully to maintain healthy feet.

1.      Have your feet examined regularly.

You should have your feet checked by a doctor or a podiatrist (foot doctor).  Report any injuries promptly. 

2.      Inspect your feet daily.

If you have a loss of sensation in the feet, you may not be aware of skin changes.  Examine your feet carefully with your hands each day.  You can use a mirror to see all areas of the feet.

      Look for the following:

• Injuries, such as blisters, cuts, or bruises
• Fungal infection, also known as Athlete’s Foot, which may include itching, cracking, peeling skin
• Signs of infection, which can include redness, warmth, swelling, pain, drainage
• Changes in color
• Callus formation
• If you notice changes, contact your doctor or nurse promptly.

 3.      Wash and dry your feet each day.Keep you feet clean and dry.  Wash your feet and between the toes thoroughly with lukewarm water and a mild soap in a gentle massaging-like motion.  Dry well by patting.  And always dry between the toes.  If you have dry skin, apply a moisturizer.  

4.      Protect your feet from injury.  Proper footwear is important to assure healthy feet.  Wear shoes or sturdy slippers to prevent injuries.  Shoes that are too tight or too loose may cause your feet to develop blisters or sores that could result in an infection.  Check the inside of your shoes for rough spots or seams that may become pressure spots.  Shake out your shoes before putting them on. 

Sock selection is equally important.  Your feet perspire.  Select socks, such as those with polypropylene that transmits sweat from your foot.  This helps to prevent chafing and irritation.

• Select shoes that are comfortable and a safe style.
• Soft leather tops—leather adapts to the shape of your foot
• Closed-toe design—protects the toes
• Low heels—safer and more comfortable
• Flexible soles—act as good shock absorbers
• Buy shoes that are a good fit.
• Shoes should be ¼ inch longer than the longest toe and should be wide enough so the toes are not cramped.
• Buy shoes that fit your largest foot.
• Try on shoes in the afternoon.
• Wear new shoes for 30 minutes, then remove them and examine your feet, especially if you have decreased sensation in your feet.  Look for reddened areas.  Gradually build up your wearing time.
• Wear clean, dry socks.  Avoid socks with tight elastic bands.

 5.      Take care of your nails.Bathe your feet before cutting nails.  Cut nails straight even with the end of the toe and file any rough edges.  Be careful to avoid injury to the skin around the nail.   Do not cut or file toenails that are thickened or deformed.  Consult a podiatrist. 

6.      Some other measures for healthy feet.

• Do not cut or file corns, calluses or bunions.
• Avoid corn or callous removers—they can cause injury to your feet.
• Avoid exposing your feet to temperature extremes.  Avoid walking on hot sandy beaches or pool decks. 

General Measures for Good Health and Healthy Feet

An important measure in the prevention of foot problems is to manage the conditions that can affect your general health and that of your feet.

• Avoid tobacco use
• Eat a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet
• Exercise regularly

Work closely with your doctor and other health care providers to insure the good health of your body.

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