It's all about the Diabetic Shoes

There are many things that need to be considered with a diabetic patient. There is the diet, the medicine and the exercise to consider. However, we can’t forget the shoes! As diabetes progresses, there is the possibility that people can develop peripheral neuropathy. This condition affects the nerves of the foot. Once diabetic neuropathy sets in, it is difficult for a person to feel anything in their shoe. This can be anything ranging from a pebble to the actual construct of the shoe. Therefore, it is important that a diabetic have specially designed shoes to prevent injuring their feet.

A diabetic shoe is specially designed to accommodate the patient’s foot. They are measured to properly fit the foot size and are often a bit wider and deeper to prevent rubbing that many of us experience on our heels or toes. The wider area for the toes prevents the toes from being squeezed together. This avoids any blisters from forming between the toes. Diabetic shoes are often wider so that they can also accommodate diabetic inserts. These inserts are made with softer materials that prevent rubbing and calluses. The material is also breathable which encourages good air circulation to prevent ulcerations and blisters. The shoes also do not have any interior seams to avoid rubbing on their feet.

It is important for a diabetic patient to come into the office and be properly fitted for their custom shoes. Blisters on a diabetic’s foot can quickly evolve into ulcers that take a long time to heal. Due to the reduced circulation within a diabetic’s legs and feet, the cells that aid in healing are not able to get to the site of injury. Due to this delayed healing, it is important to prevent the injury from occurring. These shoe adaptations will help you to reach that goal and help you to stay healthy.