Patient was instructed on the importance of a good foot care. The feet may not get a good blood supply which means that sores won't heal. In addition, damage to the nerves may not allows to feel sores, cuts and other injuries to the feet, that is why it's important to check the feet daily.
Patient was instructed about how to check both feet daily looking over them carefully every day, and be sure check between all of the toes. Blisters and infections can start between the toes, and with diabetic neuropathy, may not feel them until they've become irritated or infected. If physical challenges occur, ask a family member to help. Further teaching is needed.
If your big toe slants sharply in toward your other toes, with a big bump on the knuckle of your big toe, you've got a classic bunion. Corns are spots of thick, rough skin, where the tissue builds up on toes constantly barraged by too much rubbing or pressure. A buckled-under toe, called a hammertoe, can result from muscle weakness caused by diabetic nerve damage. All of these make it hard to fit shoes comfortably. But a good podiatrist can help you fix these problems and take better care of your feet.
Patient was instructed on foot care: a podiatrist can also fit patient with shoe inserts called orthotics to support the feet if have diabetic nerve pain or the muscles have become weak from nerve damage. If pain or weakness is so severe that it's too painful or even impossible to walk, a foot brace or orthopedic shoes might help. Further teaching is needed.
Patient was instructed about the skin damage: the skin may be dry and cracked because of high glucose levels, and cracked skin means it's easier for bacteria to get under the skin and harder for infections to heal. Use a small amount of skin lotion daily, to be sure the feet feel dry - not damp or sticky - afterwards. Try not to get the lotion in between the toes. Keep the toenails trimmed and filed smooth to avoid ingrown toenails. Further teaching is needed.
Patient was instructed about how make sure the shoes fit well. Even the slightest rubbing or misfit shoe can cause a blister that turns into a sore that becomes infected and never heals. Buy better-fitting shoes, or try different socks, even at the most minor signs of redness or irritation, since you may not be able to feel when it's getting worse. Before buying or putting on the shoes check your shoes for rough seam, sharp edges or other objects that could hurt your feet. Further teaching is needed.
Patient was instructed about the feet care: always wear shoes or slippers. Always wear socks with the shoes, since leather, plastics, and manmade shoe materials can irritate your skin and quickly bring on blisters. While the Diabetic patient might prefer the look of hose, nylon knee-highs, or thin socks, may find that these doesn't give to the toes or heels enough protection. Wear thicker socks to pad the feet and cushion any calluses or sore spots. Further teaching is needed.