• preventive foot care can prevent serious problems
• poor circulation can lead to fragile skin, dry heels, deformed nails, changes in sensitivity, numbness
• excessive pressure or friction caused by improperly fitting shoes may result in painful calluses and corns
• diabetes can result in increased risk for serious foot problems
• fungus and yeast infections can result in loss of nails and serious skin problems

• regular care of corns and calluses results in reduction of discomfort and increased mobility
• regular basic foot care with inspection of lower extremities and feet is essential for all persons with diabetes and/or circulatory problems
• identification of potential lower extremity problems could result in early treatment and prevent serious complications

• do wear properly fitting shoes and stockings
• do inspect feet regularly
• do dry well between the toes
• do wear leather (not vinyl) shoes
• do wear warm wool or cotton socks
• do have a trained professional care for your feet if you are a diabetic or if your circulation is poor
• do bring "foot concerns" to your physician's attention!

• do not walk barefoot
• do not put oil or cream between toes
• do not cut corns or calluses
• do not soak feet for over 10 minutes
• do not make your feet fit a shoe!
• do not cross your legs when sitting
• do not use hot water bottles or heating pads for cold feet
• do not use curved clippers to cut nails

Senior Watch Foot Care Nurses: Trained in basic, advanced and diabetic foot care, they bring 25 years of foot care experience. As members of the Foot Care Management Team they will

• examine feet carefully for evidence of structural or circulatory changes
• cut and file nails safely
• file down thickened, deformed nails
• remove corns/calluses
• notify family physician of any potential problems
• make referrals to appropriate community resources

Foot Care Specialists provide foot care in the privacy of your own home or at a Senior Watch clinic, in residential facilities and in hospitals. RN and LPN Specialists in Foot Care Management treat calluses, corns, and thickened nails. Blue Cross, Senior "C" plan and Veteran Affairs TAPS cards accepted.