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Feet Treat

By Joy Pape, RN, BSN, CDE, WOCN, CFCN

Abraham Lincoln said, “I can’t think straight when my feet hurt.”  

The holidays are here. There’s so much to think about.  Whether it’s about taking care of your diabetes, selecting gifts for your loved ones, being at the celebrations, the list goes on.  You want to be on top of your game. Your feet aren’t usually at the top of your holiday priority list.  Put them there this year.  It’ll help you think clearer and enjoy the holidays. So do you know what to give your feet? Treat them to these special gifts.

• At home. Take your shoes off when at home.  No, that doesn’t mean walk barefoot, but wear some comfy slippers to protect and warm your feet. Treat them to sheepskin slippers, moccasins with sheepskin linings, or fur-lined slippers.  These all help warm your feet. Make sure they have protective uppers so that if something falls on your feet, they are protected, and a sole that is thick enough so that if you step on a tack it won’t go through it to your feet.  And, just think of all the dirt you don’t pull in your house and all over your floors by not wearing your everyday shoes in your house.  What a gift!

• When out. Wear shoes for the season and the reason. Although your outfit may call for sling-back heels, they don’t do well in the cold, rain, ice, snow, or any weather for that matter. The truth is, many times you just want to look good.  Understood.  Wear appropriate shoes for the season when outside.  Then when you arrive at your destination, change into the shoes that match your outfit.  Do the same on your way home.  When home, change into your slippers.

• Peppermint. Peppermint oil is used in different skin creams, lotions, and potions to help make your feet feel better.  Check them out and gently massage them into your feet.  Or, make your own potion by adding a few drops of peppermint oil in your favorite non-fragrance lotion or cream. Gently rub this on your clean feet, avoid using it in between your toes or on open areas.

EnJoy!

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NOTE: The information is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.