Diabetic Shoes Can Provide Comfort And Joy: In past decades a doctor might look at a patient’s foot and say, “Buy a good pair of shoes and everything will be all right.”
There were times when the doctor’s advice didn’t quite go far enough, but when it comes to diabetes the good doctor may have been right. If you have diabetes the shoes you wear are extremely important.
We all want shoes that fit well and are comfortable, but for the diabetic there is a potent medical reason for a good fit and comfort. You see, as diabetes progresses, peripheral neuropathy may disallow the patient from recognizing when damage may be done to their feet. As nerves in the feet are damaged they mask pain. The patient may not often do a self-inspection on their feet while infection may be setting in. This damage can result in foot ulcers, but it can also lead to gangrene and potential amputation.
When diabetic shoes are used there is an improved chance that damage will not occur. Manufacturers have developed these shoes to provide practical comfort. You will not find diabetic high heel shoes or shoes with pointed toes. These can cause both pressure and intense rubbing on toes that often result in damage.
It can be exceptionally difficult for the diabetic to manage healing in their feet primarily due to poor circulation.
Wider and deeper than comparable shoes this type of footwear works to cradle the diabetic foot in comfort that can add additional mobility to everyday life. What’s more, private insurance or Medicare may cover the cost for these shoes.
Information About Diabetes indicates proper footwear for diabetics should include the following.
- Diabetic Shoes need to have a breathable construction – sandals and fabric shoes are good for this.
- Deep and wide designs that allow room for custom pedorthic insoles.
- Designs with no interior seams (or covered seams) to prevent rubbing injuries.
- Diabetic Shoes need a roomy “toe box” to prevent pinching or squeezing of the toes.
- Elastic or easily adjustable fit, to prevent the diabetic shoe from sliding around on the feet.
The soft shoe materials used in the construction of diabetic footwear remain an important function because it is friction that typically leads to foot ulcers. These shoes avoid friction. Inserts within the shoe are designed to provide relief for various foot deformities that might be problematic for the long-term care of the diabetic foot.
While many well-stocked shoe stores may feature diabetic shoes your physician may suggest the purchase of custom made shoes that are designed specifically for your foot requirements. Again, in many cases this is treated as a prescription and may be covered under your health care plan.
Advances in design can allow your diabetic shoes to remain tastefully elegant while maintaining the best possible care for your feet. On the other hand the managed care of diabetes is much more important than impressing others. Expect comfort in your diabetic shoes. You will likely be impressed by the quality and selection of this type of shoe allowing a choice you can not only live with, but also show off.
