The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these footcare suggestions for people with diabetes:

• Avoid walking barefoot to reduce the risk of injury.
• Carefully wash your feet with warm water and gentle soap each day, making sure the water isn't too hot and that you carefully dry your feet.
• Moisturize the skin on your feet frequently.
• Keep toenails trimmed. Cut them straight across to help prevent ingrown nails.
• Avoid using over-the-counter medications, antiseptic solutions, anything sharp or heating pads on your feet.
• Keep your feet warm at all times.
• Don't smoke.

-- Diana Kohnle