These are thick, hardened patches of skin that form in response to repeated friction or pressure, for protection.

Advice

• Foot hygiene: Wash and dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections and skin irritation. Gently exfoliate calluses with a pumice stone or foot file. Regularly use a good moisturiser on dry or callused areas to keep the skin soft and supple. 

• Shoes: comfortable, supportive, and well fitting, allowing the toes to move. Rubbing should not occur. Soft soles and low heels prevent friction. Worn shoes should be replaced.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the side of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, inflammation, and potentially infection. It's often caused by improper nail trimming or wearing tight shoes. 

Aftercare

• Soak foot in salt water, twice a day, for approximately three to four days after the procedure

• Keep the toe covered, with the dressings provided, for two to three days after the procedure

• Contact a foot health practitioner if pain or swelling does not reduce with 24 to 36 hours

• Ensure nails are cut in the correct manner either by attending a foot health appointment with your practitioner or cutting nails as per instructions.

Diabetics are at a higher risk of foot problems due to nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation, which can lead to unnoticed injuries, slow healing, and potentially serious complications like ulcers and infections, even amputations.  

Advice

• Daily foot check: Check for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or nail problems. Use a magnifying hand mirror to look at the bottom of your feet. Call your doctor if you notice anything.

• Gently wash your feet in warm water: Check the water with elbow before plunging feet into hot water. Keep your feet clean by washing them daily. Use only lukewarm water – the temperature you would use on a new born baby.

• Moisturise your feet – but not between your toes:

Use a moisturiser daily to keep dry skin from itching or cracking. DON’T moisturise between the toes as this could cause an infection.

• Ensure nails are cut carefully and correctly:

Unless you are certain you can cut your nails correctly it is recommended that you have your nails cut professionally.

• Do not attempt to treat corns or calluses yourself: 

Consult a foot health practitioner, chiropodist or GP.

• Wear clean, dry socks: Change them daily

• Avoid the wrong type of socks: 

Avoid tight elastic bands (they reduce circulation). Don’t wear thick or bulky socks (they can fit poorly and irritate the skin)

• Shake out your shoes and feel the inside before wearing:

Remember, your feet may not be able to feel a pebble or other foreign object, so always inspect your shoes before putting them on.

• Keep your feet warm and dry: 

Don’t let your feet get wet in snow or rain. Wear warm socks and shoes in winter. If you have cold feet at night, wear socks rather than using a hot water bottle

• Never walk barefoot: Not even at home! Always wear shoes or slippers. 

You could step on something and get a scratch or cut.