Assistance with Common Foot Ailments for London Diabetics

If you are diabetic and have experienced any type of injury to your foot, please contact Westmount Foot and Orthotic Clinic as quickly as possible. No matter the severity, even a minor foot injury is an emergency for patients with diabetes.

Diabetic Foot Care Tips

• Do not remove calluses or corns
• Do not cut nails yourself
• Avoid smoking as it decreases blood supply to the feet
• Ask our chiropodist about soaking your feet
• Do not wear stockings or socks with tight elastic backs
• Always wear socks with shoes
• Keep feet away from heat (burns can go unnoticed)
• Never walk barefoot, indoors or out

Check Daily for Foot Injuries

As a diabetic, it’s important to examine your feet every day so injuries do not go unnoticed. Look for signs of redness, blisters, or ulcers. Look at the bottom of your feet and between toes. If you have movement limitations, have someone else look for you, or use a mirror to examine the bottom and soles of your feet.

Purchasing Shoes

For diabetics, it’s best to purchase shoes late in the day when swelling has peaked. Also, make sure to try on the shoes along with the type of socks you wear on a daily basis. Only buy comfortable, proper fitting shoes that do not require force to put on, or a breaking-in period; the shoe should immediately feel comfortable. Request shoes with deep toe boxes, made of upper leather material. Do not wear the same shoes every day, but alternate them with a comparable pair. Shoes are more prone to damage when moisture is present.