• Keep your feet warm.
  • Avoid getting your feet wet in snow or rain.
  • Don’t put your feet on radiators or in front of the fireplace.
  • Don’t smoke, and don’t sit cross-legged. Both decrease blood supply to your feet.
  • Don’t soak your feet.
  • Don’t use antiseptic solutions, drugstore medications, heating pads, or sharp instruments on your feet.
  • Cut your toenails straight across; avoid cutting the corners. Use a nail file or emery board instead of clippers or scissors. If you find an ingrown toenail, contact your podiatrist
  • Moisturize the skin on your feet with good quality lotion, but avoid getting any lotion between your toes.
  • Wash your feet with mild soap and warm water daily.
  • Wear loose socks to bed.
  • Wear warm socks and shoes on cold days.
  • Pat each foot dry with a towel, making sure to carefully dry between the toes.
  • Buy shoes that are comfortable even before they are “broken in.” Make sure they fit widthwise and lengthwise, at the back, bottom of the heel, and at the sole. Avoid shoes with pointed-toes or high heels. Shoes with leather uppers and deep toe boxes are better. While breaking in shoes, wear the new shoes for a maximum of two hours at a time.
  • Alternate your shoes: don’t wear the same pair every day. Check the inside of each shoe for rips, tears, or anything that could cause friction and rub against your feet, causing blisters or irritation. Don’t lace your shoes too tight or too loose.
  • Wear appropriate socks and stockings. Wear clean, dry socks every day. Do not wear wrinkled socks, or socks with holes in them. Thin cotton socks are more absorbent, and will keep your feet dry, especially on warm days. Socks with square toes are roomier, and will not squeeze your toes. Do not wear socks or stockings with elastic tops.