Shoes for Diabetics

Diabetes, a disease that affects glucose levels in the blood, can lead to other complications involving the feet. One side effect of diabetes is ischemia which obstructs the body’s circulatory system. Feet and toes are usually the first to show the painful signs of deteriorating circulation because they are further away from the heart than any other body part. The blood flow that delivers oxygen and nutrients to legs and feet to keep them healthy and functioning properly becomes restricted.

Nerve damage known as diabetic neuropathy is another common complication as the disease progresses. Pain, tingling, and numbness are symptoms to take seriously. With the loss of foot sensation, it may even be difficult to determine if shoes are fitting properly. Blisters, ulcerations, and painful issues go undetected because of the loss of sensation. Serious in nature, diabetic neuropathy can be delayed or even prevented with proactive measures that include regular visits to your primary care physician and healthy lifestyle choices.

1. Proper shoes for diabetics are critical. Many of our New Balance shoes are among the best shoes for diabetes. Our most trusted styles include the 927, 1540, and 587. Important features include soles that are soft and flexible, yet durable. Shoe uppers are constructed of soft, flexible materials such as supple leathers, mesh, and high quality man-made materials. These extra-depth shoes, designed with roomier toe areas, are highly supportive and accommodate any necessary modifications.

2. Proper shoe fit is extremely important, too. When getting fit for diabetes shoes, it is recommended to do your shopping later in the day simply because most feet tend to swell a bit as the day progresses.  Our Fitting Specialists are qualified to help you find diabetes shoes and a comfortable fit. They are ready to support the treatment protocol from your primary care physician.

3. Proper insoles for diabetes can offer relief. The Pressure Relief insole, our most popular insole for diabetes, features a medical-grade plastazote cover that is extremely soft with a pillow-like feel. ABZORB® technology inside provides high levels of cushioning and protection from the shock of ground reaction forces. The Pressure Relief insole also includes metatarsal padding that gently lifts the area behind the toes to promote healthy alignment.

4. Custom orthoses for diabetes are recommended when over-the-counter solutions don’t provide the necessary relief. Our ABC certified pedorthists, available at our St. Louis and Washington store locations, can fill your physician’s prescription for these orthotics.

5. Always wear shoes, and avoid walking barefoot or sock-footed, even around the house. Appropriate footwear protects your feet against injury. For supportive, easy-to-wear comfort for leisure, try our Orthaheel sandals, approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association. These clinically proven sandals are designed by doctors and are built with a posted, cushioned arch. Remember to avoid flip flop styles with a toe post.

6. Wear socks with your shoes. Socks offer additional padding and protection from blisters and ulcerations. Our SmartWool and CoolMax® socks are made with moisture management qualities to keep your feet dry. Socks must also fit properly without binding or restricting. If swelling is a problem, try our Extra-Wide Socks for diabetes.

7. Take good care of your feet. Check for blisters, cuts, cracked skin, and swelling. Keep your feet clean, dry, and moisturized. Our Medi-Rub Foot Massager, a powerful system that stimulates circulation in your feet and legs, is a high quality foot massager for diabetes. Used also by health care professionals, the Medi-Rub Foot Massager allows you to pamper your feet "whenever you want" in the convenience of your own home.

8. Maintain an active lifestyle to increase circulation. The American Diabetes Association recommends 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least 5 times a week.

Click here for more important Diabetic foot care tips.