Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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Shoes and your feet

Well-fitting shoes protect feet and distribute pressure without squeezing the toes or skin. The wrong size, shape or use can worsen blisters, calluses, nail problems and pain. With diabetes, loss of sensation, vascular disease or a previous foot wound, fit is particularly important and new skin damage needs prompt assessment.

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Well-fitting shoes protect feet and distribute pressure without squeezing the toes or skin. The wrong size, shape or use can worsen blisters, calluses, nail problems and pain. With diabetes, loss of sensation, vascular disease or a previous foot wound, fit is particularly important and new skin damage needs prompt assessment.

  • Red pressure marks, blisters, calluses, corns or chafing after wearing particular shoes.
  • Pain in the toes, forefoot, heel, instep, ankle or lower leg when walking or standing.
  • Try shoes on later in the day when feet may be slightly larger, and walk in them in the shop.
  • Choose enough room for the toes, a stable heel, the right width and a fastening that holds the foot in place.
  • Make an appointment if foot pain, tingling, calluses or pressure areas persist despite well-fitting footwear.
  • For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.

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Further reading

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B
Bruised nailA nail may turn blue, dark red or black when blood is trapped beneath it after a blow, pressure or tight shoes. A small bruise usually grows out with the nail, but severe pain, major damage or discolouration without injury needs assessment.
C
CornsA corn is a hard, pressure-sensitive core of thickened skin caused by friction and pressure, usually on toes or soles. It may look small but be very painful when walking or wearing shoes. Treatment focuses on reducing pressure and safely removing excess hard skin. If you have diabetes, poor circulation or reduced feeling in your feet, do not cut the skin or use acids yourself; have the area assessed.
A
Athlete's footAthlete's foot is a superficial dermatophyte infection, usually between the toes or on the sole and edges of the foot. Scaling, cracks and itching often respond to a topical antifungal and keeping the skin dry, but eczema and bacterial infections can look similar. A warm foot with rapidly spreading redness, pus, fever or a wound in someone with diabetes needs prompt assessment.