DFU Manual - Episode 3 - 10 Commandments

Episode 3 of the DFU Manual breaks down the ten daily habits that prevent diabetic foot wounds and amputations. People with diabetes slowly lose sensation in their feet, meaning a wound, burn, or cut can go unnoticed until it becomes serious. These commandments collapse into four core habits: protect, care for skin, check every day, and get professional help. Protect from injury - Never walk barefoot — not at home, not on the beach, never - Keep feet away from heat sources like hot water bottles and heaters - Wash with lukewarm water and dry carefully, especially between the toes - Wear seamless shoes shaped to your foot type Keep skin healthy - Wear white socks without tight elastic so blood from an injury shows early - Moisturize daily — but never between the toes - Never put alcohol, iodine, or peroxide on a wound; they damage the skin you're trying to save Check every day Inspect your feet daily with a mirror, or ask a family member to help. Catching a wound early can prevent an amputation. For clinicians supporting patients in diabetic foot ulcer care, reinforcing this daily-check habit is one of the highest-impact interventions available. Get professional care - Visit a podiatrist every month for nail care — cutting your own nails is how small mistakes turn into wounds - See your doctor three times a year for a full foot exam, not just a medication check Print these commandments for the bathroom mirror. For practices looking to strengthen patient engagement and education, sharing this routine can reduce preventable ulcer presentations. Next episode: managing your blood sugar — the foundation that makes every other habit work. Original content by Lianza Para El Salvataje in Peru, brought to you by Pingoo, your AI health companion.

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