Foot Cream

[KarinB]

What is the best sort of cream for a Diabetic (T1) to use on their feet to keep them soft and moisturised? I have searched the internet and there is a lot of controversy over what to use.

Also, whilst on the subject of feet, does anyone use a JML Shower Feet? As we only have a shower so our feet don't have the chance to soak in a bath I thought this may be a good idea, not only for my diabetic son, but also for all of us to use (or shouldn't we share?).

 

[izzzi]

I think those JML Shower Feet gadgets are the worst things to use in a shower.
They could trap more bad things all over your feet. ( yak )

Aqueous Cream BP is very good and not expensive.

Roy.

 

[witan]

It's true that showers are one of the worst things for your feet - there is a great tendency to overlook them.
Most important is to physically wash them, if you can't balance on one leg sit down in the shower and do it. Then there is the drying, too many people just let them air-dry, then some bits, especially between the toes won't dry before you put your socks or shoes on, if you are in a hard-water area there will be a build up of calcium salts which may cause other problems too. A water softener will probably help.
So dry thoroughly and use a cream, any simple cream will do, but not too greasy or oily or your foot may start sliding around in your shoes and that can feel quite uncomfortable. Fancy expensive creams aren't necessary unless you are treating another problem, they simply doubly ensure they are dry and add a fine protective layer.
like every thing in life you only get out what you put in, so if you want to care for your feet well you'll need to soak them a couple of times a week, a large washing up bowl is all you'll need. what to add to the water - I've used anything from TCP (diluted as instructions) when treating fungal nail infections and cracked skin to Epsom Salts which I'm trying now and are a great low cost way of softening your skin and may have BP reducing advantages too.

 

[daisy1]

Just to add one thing - I was told not to put cream between my toes.

 

[noblehead]

Many years ago my Podiatrist recommended a product called Flexitol Heel Balm which is safe to use on diabetic feet, have to say it's great stuff and keeps the feet moisturised and soft.

 

[anna29]

My GP lets me use Diprobase emollient cream , I too was told not to use this between my toes .
I think Diprobase is script only :?:
Thing is - as it comes in a huge pumped container this lasts me well over 12months :thumbup:

Anna.

 

[Neicy0412]

I use GehWol Fusskraft mint foot cream, it is brilliant, my feet used to burn after a day at work but using this cream has made such a difference.

 

[KarinB]

I have read in other posts that any cream with Urea in is not good for Diabetics to use. I do already have some Aqueous cream but as this normally used to wash with, is it alright to put on the feet and leave until it soaks in?

 

[Hobs]

I used to use Cuticura cream until it became increasingly difficult to obtain. It was then my GP recommended E45 and gave me a script for a pump dispenser full of it. Since then my heels have become softer and generally feel more pliable for the E45.
In the past I have tried probably all the specialist heel creams, but this E45 is definately the best in my opinion :thumbup:

 

[Indy51]

I use coconut oil a few times a week and wear socks to bed to keep it off the bedding - seems to work really well.

 

[Nik442]

I have read in other posts that any cream with Urea in is not good for Diabetics to use. I do already have some Aqueous cream but as this normally used to wash with, is it alright to put on the feet and leave until it soaks in?

I've always had dry skin on my heels even before diabetes and I use Dermatonics Heel Balm which says on the box it contains Urea and also says "Suitable for Diabetics, Paraben Free." I've no idea what Paraben is.

Nik

 

[Sarah69]

I use a cream called CCS, I put it on after a bath, put socks on and wear them overnight and my feet are well moisturised and feel lovely.

 

[mrndnn]

I found E45, like many others, not very good for my feet. I now have Flexitol on prescription, and that is great. Best I have ever tried for my feet. But again, not between toes. And great care needed to thoroughly dry feet and between toes. For spells of very itchy dry skin generally - apparently common in some diabetics - I have Aqueous cream on prescript. That too is great for general use.

 

[paulbooth6]

I have a regular pedicure, nails cut properly any hard skin attended to (especially in the summer when I only wear sandals/flip flops no socks as i live in spain) then moisturised. work the expense every month.

 

[Ricky]

I also use Flexitol but the Flexitol Natural which smells divine and is found in a green pack in Boots. Unfortunately it is expensive but it works the best on me. It is the only one that keeos my feet moistuised all night . I wake frequently and nearly always have to moisturise my feet again as they feel dry and stiff.

 

[Ashmore69]

There are some good suggestions below about foot cream but maybe you need to speak to your doctor or practice nurse about which is best for you. I've used a whole number of different creams but the best by far, as recommended by my practice nurse, is E45. It works for me and I won't use any other now.