Protect your feet health: foot care tips for patients with peripheral neuropathy

Author: Zheng Yongsheng, Xu Yafang, Zhang Mingjie, Sun Chong, Huashan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University

Reviewer: Lin Jie, deputy chief physician, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University

Foot care is an important part of the daily life of patients with peripheral neuropathy. Without careful observation and proper care, patients may develop foot problems such as pressure sores and ulcers due to changes in blood circulation and decreased sensation caused by peripheral neuropathy, and in severe cases, may even lead to serious consequences due to infection. For patients with peripheral neuropathy, the following care points should be noted:

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1. The shoes worn by the patient should fully cover the toes and support the sole and arch of the foot. There should be about 1.2 cm (equivalent to the width of a thumb) of space at the front of the shoe. The upper should be soft and flexible, with a smooth lining, no wrinkles and obvious seams.

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2. Avoid walking barefoot as much as possible. If it is unavoidable, carefully check your toes and soles for injuries after walking, especially after walking barefoot outdoors.

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3. Foot soaking can promote blood circulation in the feet, but patients with reduced sensation need to test the water temperature before soaking to prevent burns. After soaking, the feet should be dried in time, especially between the toes, to avoid water retention.

4. For hard or dry areas of the feet, you can use oils such as coconut oil, jojoba oil or shea butter to keep the skin moisturized, but avoid using it between the toes.

5. Change your socks at least once a day, preferably cotton. Wear cushioning and sweat-absorbing insoles in your shoes. Check your socks daily for blood or other discharge, which could be a sign of an unnoticed wound or ulcer.

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6. Keep your nails flat and ask your family for help when trimming them to reduce the risk of injury.

7. Corns and calluses on the feet are manifestations of excessive local pressure. You should check whether your shoes fit your feet and pay attention to reducing pressure. To keep warm, you can cover yourself with a blanket or wear warm soft boots, and avoid using hot water bottles to prevent burns.

8. Pay attention to whether the sock opening is too tight. When your calves are swollen, too tight sock openings may hinder blood circulation and aggravate swelling.

9. Do not smoke. Smoking can cause vasoconstriction and reduce blood supply to the feet.

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10. Avoid crossing your legs to avoid reducing blood supply to your legs. Regular walking can help improve blood circulation in your legs.

11. Minimize the use of tape on your feet to reduce the risk of skin damage.

Check your feet and the skin between your toes every day. You can use a mirror to help you observe. You can also ask your family or friends to help you check. If you find painless ulcers, cuts, red spots, edema, pus or blisters, you should see a doctor immediately.