Patient Education
Prevention and Control
Proper Foot Care
It is essential for persons with Peripheral Arterial Disease (P.A.D.) involving their legs to take proper care of their feet. The feet should be inspected and washed daily. If the skin is dry, a lotion such as lanolin should be applied. Foot powder should be used if necessary to keep dampness away.Loose wool socks should be worn to keep the feet warm and they should be changed daily. No tight stockings or garters should be worn. Bare feet and open shoes are discouraged. Shoes should fit well and a podiatrist should be consulted if special shoes are needed for deformed feet.
The person with P.A.D. may need assistance with foot care. It is important that toenails not be cut too short and they should be trimmed straight across the top. Any corns or calluses should not be treated with strong chemicals or adhesive products. Instead, a podiatrist should treat them. If a skin lesion or ulceration occurs in a person with diabetes and P.A.D., it should be treated immediately.