Amputee Foot care

Looking after your remaining foot is very important. Even minor problems should never be ignored, as they could develop into serious issues requiring hospital care.

Please follow the instructions below:

  • Examine your foot daily.
  • Wash your foot daily. Test the water temperature first with your elbow to avoid scalds.
  • Dry your foot carefully, especially between the toes.
  • Cut and file your toenails smoothly. If you have reduced sensation, have your toenails cut by a Podiatrist.
  • Apply a non-perfumed moisturiser around the heel and sole, but not between the toes.
  • Cover any breaks in the skin with a dry, sterile dressing. Do not burst blisters, as this can cause infection.
  • Never use sharp instruments on your foot.
  • Avoid using corn plasters, as they contain acid.
  • Avoid direct heat sources.
  • Ensure your shoe fits well.
  • Keep in regular contact with a Podiatrist.
Choosing Footwear

Foot problems can affect anyone. Patients with diabetes may experience:

  • Reduced sensation in the foot.
  • Poor circulation.
  • Misshapen feet.

Any injury to the foot can break the skin, allowing infection to enter and potentially lead to ulcers. Poorly chosen shoes are a common cause of such injury and can result in serious problems, including amputation. Choosing the right footwear is an important part of good foot care. Suitable shoes, along with appropriate stockings, tights, or socks, help keep your feet healthy. Having an amputation does not necessarily make it harder to find suitable footwear. Shoes that don’t fit well can cause corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, blisters, and ulcers. Because you may have reduced sensation, don’t assume your shoes and socks are safe just because they feel comfortable. If you have neuropathy (reduced sensation) or poor circulation, continued rubbing or pinching by unsuitable shoes can cause damage without causing pain.

When buying shoes, ensure they:

  • Are measured for size and width.
  • Have a deep and rounded toe box to accommodate your toes.
  • Have a flat or low heel to improve stability and reduce the risk of falls.
  • Fasten securely with laces, buckles or Velcro straps to hold the heel in place and prevent the foot from sliding forward and crushing the toes.
  • Are checked inside for sharp objects or stones before wearing.
  • Have damaged inner sole linings replaced.

Avoid socks, stockings or tights that:

  • Have wrinkles or prominent seams.
  • Have overly tight elastic tops, as these may restrict the circulation.
  • Have holes or darned areas, as these can cause rubbing and skin damage.
Seeking Help and What Care to Expect

You should receive full education about foot care and if necessary, have your feet examined at least once a year. If you have a misshapen foot, poor circulation, or loss of sensation, specialist care may be important. This includes clear advice about appropriate footwear. If your feet are at high risk, you should be formally assessed for specialist footwear. If you’re unsure of which fit or style is suitable for you, speak to your prosthetic team for advice or request a referral to see a specialist Podiatrist / Orthotist.

Always report any foot problems urgently to your doctor or diabetes care team.

Contact details

Prosthetic Multi-Disciplinary Team

Prosthetic Department Specialist Rehabilitation and Mobility Centre (SRMC)

Cumberland Infirmary

Tel: 01228 616868

Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 4:30

Confidentiality

‘The Trust’s vision is to keep your information safe in our hands.’ We promise to use your information fairly and legally, and in-line with local and national policies. You have a right to understand how your information is used and you can request a copy of the information we hold about you at any time.

For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:

Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961

Feedback

We appreciate and encourage feedback, which helps us to improve our services. If you have any comments, compliments or concerns to make about your care, please contact the Patient, Advice & Liaison Service:

pals@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 814008 or 01946 523818

If you would like to raise a complaint regarding your care, please contact the Complaints Department:

complaints@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 936302