Effective prevention of non-healing sores depends greatly on the kind of sore you are most likely to get. Below are some helpful prevention tips for diabetic foot sores and venous leg ulcers.

Diabetic foot sore prevention

• Take appropriate actions to control your blood sugar
• Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, red spots, or swelling. Inform your doctor immediately if you see any changes or injuries
• Have a podiatrist or other health care professional trim
  your toenails straight across and file the edges
• Always wear shoes when walking – never go barefoot
• Wear thick, soft socks – avoid mended socks or those with seams, which could rub and cause blisters or other skin injuries
• Before putting on your shoes, feel inside for pebbles or
  other small hard objects
• Don’t wear high heels, sandals, or shoes without toes
• Don’t try to remove calluses, corns, or warts by yourself –
  see your doctor for assistance in these cases

Venous leg sore prevention

• Avoid long periods of sitting or standing whenever possible
• Raise your legs above the level of your heart as often as possible
• Wear compression stockings as instructed by your doctor
• Walk daily in sturdy, comfortable shoes that do not rub or
  slip on your feet – be sure to stop and rest if your feet or
  legs begin to hurt
• Talk to your doctor before you begin any fitness program
• Maintain a balanced diet – reduce your weight as recommended by your doctor
• Wash your legs and feet daily using a mild soap and warm (not hot) water
• Inspect your legs and feet regularly for signs of swelling, discoloration, dryness, bruises, or sores – inform
  your doctor immediately if you see any changes