I'm recovering from diabetes related foot surgery and realise that I need to take great care of my feet particularly around infection, thats what caused the surgery. Wondered if anyone uses sprays or oils or creams to help prevent infection of the feet and toes on a regular basis. I'm aware of things like tea tree oil but not sure whether it could be used neat or needs a carrier? Any advice or experiences much appreciated.
Foot care
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hankjam
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I keep mine hydrated with a variety of lotions, E45, aqueous cream, Vaseline, anything to keep the cracks away, which I was told is the entry point for infections. Once a day when I put my socks on.... I should do before I go to bed... but don't.
HTH
Aj
HTH
Aj
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To prevent hard skin and cracks I use Flexitol Heel Balm, it was recommended to me by my Podiatrist a few years back and it's a great product.
Thanks @marcusurillius. Just wondering is flexitol used only on heels or the whole foot please? Also do you or @noblehead use anything specifically antibiotic as well please?
sandra curtis
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Just the soles of the feet as far as I'm aware, it's used to prevent and soften hard skin.
Probably E45 would be fine for the top of the feet but I was told not to moisturise between the toes.
devans115
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Cracked skin is not my problem but loosing toe nails is. My GP says it is becasue of my diabetes and \I should expect this. But it worries me . Has anyone else had this problem and if so what did they do about it. Iam beginning to think it might be diet related.
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Hi @devans115
NHS Choices has a list of nail abnormalities which may be of interest:
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nail-abnormalities/Pages/Introduction.aspx
Thanks for the advice I've invested in a tube of flexitol heel balm and will start using it tonight
Following @noblehead 's advice I've been using flexitol heel balm for a while and it does the job well. Just a heads up that it's on special in boots right now at £8.06 instead of £9.49, don't know how that compares with the interweb though .
ladybird64
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I don't have foot probs, but have always been fussy about keeping my feet moisturised and in good condition, no hard skin build up etc.
I find the best time to put cream on is after my evening bath, after drying well, I put cream on (liberally on heels) and pop a pair of cotton socks on. It helps the cream soak in overnight.
I find the best time to put cream on is after my evening bath, after drying well, I put cream on (liberally on heels) and pop a pair of cotton socks on. It helps the cream soak in overnight.
My wife uses that and says it is good - it has more urea than other products she has used.
Flexitol for sure! And it is free on prescription to Diabetic UK NHS patients. My sister (non diabetic) swears by hemp cream for cracked heels. I use Flexitol heels and soles...and cotton socks to help it do its magic. Good luck and stay well.
