Step Up Your Foot Care for Long-Term Health

April is National Foot Health Awareness Month. Many people take their feet for granted until they have a problem. Once that happens, it is often hard to walk or get around. The most serious problems can become infections leading to permanent injury or even amputation. Interim Healthcare’s home caregivers help our senior citizens, cancer patients and diabetics in particular to be extra vigilant with their foot health. Limited blood circulation in the feet is common in these cases and can cause additional problems when not monitored regularly. Preventive care can also be worked in to the daily hygiene routine for long-term healthy feet.

Toenails
If you are not handy with nail scissors or toenail clippers, have someone else cut your toenails for you, such as your doctor or an Interim home healthcare professional who is trained in foot care.  If you have limited hand strength, the toenails may not be properly cut all the way through and may tear, causing an open wound on the toe. Scissors may slip and cut or puncture the skin, causing an open wound. Overgrowth may curl the toenails and dig in to the skin, causing cuts and breaks.

Neuropathy
If you have neuropathy, or numbness and tingling in your feet, it is important to always pay special attention to where you are walking. Avoid going barefoot whenever possible, even if you are just walking around the house. Be on the lookout for sharp or stray objects, such as children’s toys, thumbtacks or uneven flooring. When outside, bare feet are especially at risk from sharp dry grasses, thorny pinecones or plants, and stinging insects. Inspect your feet for things you may have stepped on and any skin irritations that cannot be felt due to numbness. Watch out for legs on furniture that may be close to the area where you are walking. Stubbing your toe is not a minor issue, especially when you cannot feel that it is broken.

Dryness
Dry skin is a hazard, especially for diabetics and seniors. Skin may crack and peel, causing irritations and possibly infections. After bathing, be sure to thoroughly dry the feet with a clean, dry towel. When they are completely dry, use unscented therapeutic skin lotion on the feet to keep them soft and healthy. Do not put lotion between the toes, as moisture can become trapped and cause skin fungus. If the feet are hard to reach, ask for assistance, especially if you have home care.

Shoes
Diabetics, seniors and cancer patients should make it a regular practice to always cover their feet to avoid hazards of injury and disease. Wear shoes that have closed toes and fit well. If you have bunions or plantar fasciitis, consider heel cups or orthotics to ease foot pain instead of going barefoot. Do not wear new shoes for several hours on end until they are broken in. Avoid any that cause blisters or skin irritations. If you have neuropathy, shoes can be uncomfortable or even painful. Find some that are lightweight and do not rub the skin.