How to Select Shoes If You Are Diabetic

Posted by admin in Prescription Diabetes Drugs on January 15th, 2011

Diabetics are at an increased risk for foot complications. In fact, these complications account for about 20% of all diabetic related hospital admissions in the U.S.

Approximately 25% of diabetics will develop foot problems. And about 3% of diabetics will undergo a leg or foot amputation. 50% of diabetics who have one leg amputated will the other amputated within 5 years.

Your feet are worth protecting. They are meant to last a lifetime. So a great deal of care should be taken when selecting footwear.

Many shoes designed for diabetics are not the most stylish. But, which would you prefer:

Being buried with your feet or

Being buried without your feet.

Tips For Shoes

1. Always buy shoes in the late afternoon or evening. If your feet swell, this will be when they are their largest.

2. Many feet are uneven in size. Example: the left may be a half size larger than the right. So, always try shoes on your largest foot first.

3. Be sure check for adequate support when trying on shoes.

4. Be sure that the new shoes are both wide and long enough.

5. Look for one-piece insoles. Two pieces can cause additional friction to the sole of the foot.

6. Break in shoes very gradually. You should wear them only 1-2 hours a day for the first 2 weeks.

7. Never wear uncomfortable or tight shoes.

8. If you feel that you need special shoes or inserts talk to your doctor first.

9. Never buy shoes that don’t breathe (plastic). The best are made of cotton or leather which are breathable.

10. Never wear shoes that you just slip your feet into. They allow your foot to slip forward and may cause pressure on the toes. The best have laces or Velcro.

11. Never go barefoot. Always wear shoes!

12. Before you put on your shoes, feel around inside with your fingers. You may find a sharp object.

13. Never wear sandals or open-toed shoes.

14. Try to avoid high-heeled shoes or pointy-toe shoes.

Share and Enjoy:
  • Digg
  • Sphinn
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Mixx
  • Google

No Comments »

No comments yet.

RSS feed for comments on this post. TrackBack URL

Leave a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.