Last updated: April 2020
Next review: April 2022
URN:

?  Why have I been given this leaflet

As a result of your foot assessment you have been identified as having a “Low Risk” of a Foot Attack.

Being at Low Risk means you have:

• Good blood supply
• Normal shaped feet
• Normal nails and skin
• Good feeling in your feet

As your feet are in good condition you do not need to see a podiatrist. However, you can be referred at any point should you develop a problem with your feet. You should be able to carry out your own foot care if you follow this general advice.

How to look after your feet

It is a good idea to check your feet every day looking for:

• Callus (areas of thick hard skin)
• Any changes in colour
• Breaks in the skin

Wear shoes that fit well. Wear in a new pair of shoes gradually, and check your feet after each wear. Check the inside of your shoes regularly for ridges, sharp points or worn areas. Tip shoes upside down before putting them on.

You can use a mirror to check your feet or ask someone to help you if you find this difficult.

It is a good idea to:

• Maintain safe blood sugar (glucose), cholesterol and blood pressure levels to prevent future problems by keeping the nerves and blood vessels safe.
• Stop smoking; ask your GP or nurse if you need help quitting.
• Check your shoes and socks for any signs of wear and tear to prevent rubbing on your feet.
• Avoid walking without footwear as this increases the risk of injuring your feet

Nail care

We recommend that you file your toenails weekly, follow the curve of the end of your toe and make sure the edges are rounded.

If you choose to see a private podiatrist make sure that they are Health and Care Professions (HCPC) registered.

Hygiene

• Wash your feet daily in water, avoid soaking them longer than 5-10 minutes as this can dry out the skin.
• You can use moisturising cream over the skin every day – avoid the nails and between the toes.
• Avoid surgical spirits on any breaks in the skin as they can be harmful.

Prevention

To help prevent areas of hard or dry skin it is recommended that you apply a moisturising cream to your feet every day. Avoid putting it in between your toes as this can make the skin soggy and prone to fungal infections.

If you develop a corn avoid the use of over-the-counter corn remedies as they may contain ingredients that could damage your skin. You should have it removed by a podiatrist who will also give you advice on how to prevent it reoccuring.

Foot attack

This is an injury to the foot which fails to heal and can start as a small break in the skin e.g. a blister or cut and can quickly develop into a foot ulcer. This can lead to infection and in some cases this can lead to amputation.

What to look for and who to contact

If you notice any breaks in the skin, minor cuts or blisters you should:

• Cover them with a simple sterile dressing
• Check them every day
• Keep blisters intact
• If the problem does not heal within a few days or you suspect an infection contact your GP or minor injuries unit.

Monday to Friday, 8.30-16.30

 Telephone: 0300 124 5855

Email: sirona.podiatryservice@nhs.net

Find out more about the services we provide on our website:

https://sirona-cic.org.uk//nhsservices/adult-services/podiatry/