Diabetic Shoes

Many diabetics eventually wind up with “peripheral neuropathy” and diabetic shoes can help prevent sores. What this means is the diabetic begins to lose sensation in his/her feet, hands, and other extremities. This means that any injury or ulcer to the foot may occur before the diabetic even realizes it. Because of this it is important to choose diabetic shoes that fit properly and will reduce the risk of foot injury.

Importance of Diabetic Shoes

Diabetic shoes are made specifically for diabetics, but they must be fitted properly to help prevent any foot injuries. Pedorthic companies design and manufacture specially made diabetic shoes in a variety of widths, sizes, and styles.

Benefits of Diabetic Shoes

Diabetic shoes are usually designed with diabetic insoles in mind. This means they are usually deeper and wider than traditional shoes. Diabetic shoe inserts are used to help ensure a proper fit and to reduce the risk of rubbing or abrasion. Shoe inserts are usually custom made, too, so each diabetic has the best fitting diabetic shoes possible. Most diabetic shoes also provide air circulation to the feet, which is important for diabetics. Many diabetic shoes are made of fabric or as sandals to promote circulation.

Fitting of Diabetic Shoes

Diabetic shoes should be fitted by a professional trained in the fitting of diabetic shoes. This is incredibly important because many diabetics have limited sensation in their feet, which makes it difficult to determine whether there is a good fit or not. Diabetic shoes that fit properly help diabetics avoid ulcers from too much pressure from the shoes and also promote circulation.

What to Look for in Diabetic Shoes

Diabetics considering diabetic shoes should look for specific things. These include shoes made of breathable fabric. Also, diabetic shoes that are wide and deep that can accommodate pedorthic insoles are important. It is also important to shop for diabetic shoes with no seams on the interior side of the shoe. This helps prevent foot injuries from rubbing. The front of diabetic shoes should be wide enough to accommodate the toes so there will be no squeezing or pinching, which could result in injury.

Paying for Diabetic Shoes

In most cases, individuals with private insurance or Medicare will have their diabetic shoes and insoles covered in whole or part. In some cases diabetics may be responsible for covering the full price of their diabetic shoes. However, that is not the case for most diabetics in need of diabetic shoes.