Diabetes can lead to problems with circulation to the extremities, which includes the feet. When you don't wear the correct shoes, feet become irritated or infected. If left untreated, the infection can lead to amputation. It is crucial for diabetics to have the correct foot wear. When you wear ill fitting shoes, it lessens your foot sensitivity and you may not notice a sore or an infection. Shoes specifically designed for diabetics will help reduce the stress to the feet and keep them healthy and free of disease.
Visit Your Doctor First.
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| Men's New Balance |
Before you purchase any shoes, you should always visit your doctor first. Your doctor will let you know if you have any nerve damage in your feet due to your diabetes. If you do have any nerve damage, you will need shoes specifically designed for diabetics. When you have nerve damage, it means you cannot feel pressure or any irritations. When you wear bad fitting shoes, they will eventually cause these problems. When you don't have the proper feeling, wearing shoes that are too tight will rub blisters that can lead to infection and other serious complications.
Fit and Function.
Most people buy shoes because of the way they look, diabetics need to buy shoes because of the way they fit. Diabetic shoes are designed for the need for good circulation to the feet. Diabetic shoes come in a variety of styles with several companies to choose from. You can check out the different varieties by visiting our Step Alive Shoes website. It's best to purchase diabetic shoes for whatever activities you need them for. You may need them for walking, the office or just for everyday use. At the very least, purchase a pair of diabetic shoes you can wear everyday.
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| Women's Natural Step |
How to Choose.
The best way for you to try on diabetic shoes is by wearing the type of socks or hosiery you will be wearing with the shoes on a daily basis. If you don't, you may purchase a paid of shoes that feel great in the store but once you get home and change socks they are too tight. This defeats the purpose of getting the right fit. You may also want to purchase lace-up shoes instead of slip-ons. Slip on shoes are designed to fit more tightly because they need to stay snug on your feet. Lace-up shoes gives you more flexibility for tightening and loosening when needed.
The Right Time.
The best time to try on shoes for purchasing it after noon. Feet tend to be more their regular size after you have been walking, sitting and standing for several hours. Feet are slightly larger towards the afternoon, so this will give a truer fit that will be comfortable all the time. If you purchase shoes in the morning, they may end up being too tight, which is dangerous for diabetics. Diabetics need to have the correct fit at all times, so purchase them towards the end of your day to ensure comfort and the proper fit throughout the day.
If you have any questions regarding the fit of your shoes, or want to have Dr. Vail give you a diabetic foot check up before you purchase any shoes, give us a call at 419-423-1888 or visit our website at http://www.vailfoot.com/.
