Diabetic Shoes-Looking Good!

Diabetic shoes have come along way since your grandmother first started wearing them.  Not only in fulfilling the medical needs of diabetics but also in exceeding fashion expectations. 
You may ask yourself, is it really necessary for me to wear diabetic shoes?  The answer is yes!  With the most common side effect of diabetes being peripheral neuropathy, which causes the loss of sensation in the extremities, you want the best fitting shoe possible.  An ill-fitting shoe can lead to rubbing or pinching of the feet which can lead to an ulceration or foot injury because the diabetic cannot feel the injury until it is too late.

Dr. Comfort "Mary Jane"

Wearing diabetic shoes is very important in  preventing such injuries.  There are several companies we work with who specialize and manufacture special shoes and insoles for diabetics.  These companies include:  Dr. Comfort, Natural Step, PW Minor, Pedors and Aetrex just to name a few.
Diabetic shoes are made wider and deeper than regular shoes.  This allows room for the special diabetic insoles that are custom made for each patients feet.  This ensures a proper fit, minimizes rubbing and uneven weight distribution, and prevents injury.  It is also important for a diabetic to have shoes with good air circulation.
It is very important for a diabetic to have their shoes custom fitted by a trained professional.  You want someone trained in diabetic shoe fitting so you don't get an improper fit since you may not be able to feel the shoe due to peripheral neuropathy.  By ensuring a proper fit and good air circulation, properly designed diabetic shoes and insoles will help prevent pressure ulcers, encourage good blood circulation and allow the skin to breathe.
Here are some traits to look for in a good shoe design for diabetics.





Dr. Comfort "Cozy"


• Diabetic shoes need to have a breathable construction.  Shoes made from fabric or sandals are a good choice.
• Deep and wide designs that allow room for custom diabetic insoles.
• Designs with no interior seams or have 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.  This is to prevent the shoe from sliding around on the foot. 

To schedule your diabetic shoe fitting or learn more about diabetic footcare, call our office at 419-423-1888 or visit our website at http://www.vailfoot.com/.