Epidermolysis Bullosa Home Care Programme Treatment Physical care Feet

• practice good foot hygiene by: washing the feet regularly, drying them properly (especially between the toes) and powdering the feet with talcum powder;

• cut nails straight but not too short;

• have fused nails attended to by a chiropodist;

• walk barefoot whenever possible;

• regularly soak feet in cold water;

• change socks and shoes frequently;

• chill socks and shoes by storing them, prior to wear, in the refrigerator or freezer;

• wear thick cotton socks, possibly two pairs at once;

• use inner soles;

• pierce or snip blisters as soon as possible.

Footwear

Shoes must fit well and be made of material that can be well-ventilated. Leather is usually suitable. It is often difficult to find shoes that fit well and it is mostly a matter of trying them on for size. Important aspects in the choice of footwear are:

• the heel must fit properly;

• avoid high-heeled shoes. These cause more friction at the toes and the ball of the foot;

• avoid sharp-pointy shoes;

• shoes must be roomy.