How Diabetic Shoes Can Help

• Dr. Bruce Zappan
• November 21, 2017

According to the American Diabetes Association, there are over 30 million people in the U.S. alone that are dealing with the complications of diabetes. The damage caused by high blood sugar affects your whole body, with your circulation, immune, and nervous systems particularly affected. Since your feet can suffer severe complications such as foot ulcers, it’s very important for diabetics to wear shoes that provide support and protection for their feet.

A good pair of shoes can make all the difference to a diabetic patient. Your foot care specialist can help you choose the correct shoes and inserts.

Things to look for in a good pair of diabetic shoes include the following:

• Supportive and roomy—Shoes have to provide support, while still having enough room in the toe box to accommodate deformities like hammertoes and bunions. The shoe should take the pressure off and stabilize the deformity to eliminate pain and prevent further injury. Shoes should also limit joint movement to decrease pain, and provide plenty of shock absorption for the bottoms of your feet. Weight redistribution and pressure relief can also help treat and prevent diabetic foot ulcers.
• Custom made—Many patients with severe deformities may require specially made shoes with additional depth to accommodate extra orthotic inserts, ankle stabilizers, and extra cushioning. External shoe alterations including sole adjustments may also be necessary.

Get the help you need for your diabetic foot problems by seeing your podiatrist. For any problems you may be experiencing with your feet and ankles it is important to see a foot specialist to receive the correct care. At Medical Arts Podiatry Associates in Philadelphia, PA, podiatrist Bruce B. Zappan, D.P.M., P.C., is an expert in proper diagnosis and recommendations for treatment. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or make an appointment with our office at 215-563-2560.