Diabetic Shoes- Everything you wanted to know- Part 1

The problem

Diabetes is a chronic disorder and can present with serious complications. One of the most dreadful complications of diabetes is foot infections. If the foot infection gets out of control, an amputation is often the end result. The problem with diabetes is that even if the blood glucose levels are well monitored, many patients develop a neuropathy. The diabetic neuropathy seriously limits the ability to sense all types of trauma and is a leading cause of foot damage and infections. The neuropathy leads to the development of pressure sores and ulcers on the heels and soles of the feet.

Prevention

One of the best ways to prevent foot trauma and avoid infections is to get a proper pair of diabetic shoes. Unlike the past, the diabetic shoes available today are light weight, comfortable and offer solid protection to the foot.

Before buying

Before one buys diabetic shoes, one should get a physical exam by a health care professional to assess the feet and blood circulation. The type of shoe will depend on the degree of foot deformity, presence of an ulcer or any prior toe amputation. The shoes are always custom designed to offer the maximum protection and safety. The majority of diabetic shoes are spacious and are designed in a way so as to avoid pressure on the heels or the soles.

Need a prescription

Once a prescription for a shoe has been obtained, one can visit a shoe store which specializes in orthotic wear. One should never buy diabetic shoes online because these shoes need to be worn to assess their comfort ability, fit and safety.