Shoes and Slippers that fit correctly are so important for patients in hospital or care homes

It sounds so obvious but often well-intentioned relatives bring in slippers and shoes from home that used to fit well. But, if the patients feet have swollen slightly, those favourite styles may have the potential to do a great deal of damage.

Even soft slippers can rub if they don't fit properly. Often relatives slip them on when the patient is in a chair. if the patient is slightly confused, has a speech problem or has limited sensation in his or her feet, they shoes may cause blisters in a very short time. In the case of elderly patients or those with damaged skin or nerves, even a small blister can take ages to heal properly.

Staff should always be on-hand to give advise. Certainly if the patient is learning to walk again following a stroke or an accident, it is vital that the shoes give the greatest possible support.

Jill