Feet and Footwear

Taking good care of your feet is very important, as issues like overgrown toenails, loss of sensation, and ill-fitting footwear can lead to discomfort, difficulty walking, and reduced stability.

Foot Care for Independence

Being aware of and keeping an eye out for possible foot health concerns can help you to identify problems earlier on, allowing you to seek support before they become a bigger issue. It’s important to wash and dry your feet well and regularly check for any new concerns, such as corns & calluses, overgrown or ingrown toenails, bunions, or sore areas. 

One simple step you can take to maintain your foot health is trimming your toenails. Doing so after bathing, when they are softer, can make the process more manageable. 

Professional Foot Care

If you are unsure about the best way to care for your feet or have specific foot concerns, consider consulting a podiatrist or chiropodist. They are trained professionals who can provide expert guidance on foot care and address any issues you may be experiencing. This is particularly important for individuals with diabetes, as foot complications can be more severe in this group.

Choosing the Right Footwear

The type of footwear you choose can significantly impact your comfort and stability. Here are some recommendations:

• Choose shoes that provide protection and support for your feet. Look for non-slip soles that are not overly thick.
• Avoid high-heeled, backless or loose-fitting footwear, as they can increase the risk of tripping and cause instability.

Find Support

Please find below useful links, relevant resources and contact information. All links open in a new window and may include links to websites, videos, and PDF files for downloading and printing. 

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Local Support 

South Tees Falls Team
If you require general falls prevention advice and support or don't know where to start, please contact the Falls Team at Low Grange Health Centre, Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays, between the hours of 8.30am and 4.30pm.
01642 944484 / ste-tr.fallsteam@nhs.net

Age UK Teesside
Age UK Teesside has a wide range of services to help over 50s in Middlesbrough and Redcar & Cleveland to achieve the best out of their lives, their finances, social life and health & wellbeing
01642 805500 / info@ageukteesside.org.uk

For a full list of organisations in your local area that can support you, help you to stay active, and improve your home safety, please visit our help and contacts section.

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Helpful Links 

Find podiatrists and chiropodists' services - NHS
How to look after your feet - Age UK

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More on this website

Visit our Information and Advice section
Visit our Staying Active section
Visit our Home Safety section
Visit our Help and Contacts section 
Start your online Self-Assessment

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