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Choosing Shoes For People With Diabetes

Expertly reviewed by Dexter Macalintal, MD · Internal or General Medicine


Written by Hello Bacsi · Updated Jun 03, 2022

    Choosing Shoes For People With Diabetes

    Uncontrolled blood sugar can lead to diabetes and many other serious problems. One of them is diseases related to the legs and feet. Do you know how to choose shoes for people with diabetes? Learn more about diabetic shoes here. 

    Why are people with diabetes more prone to foot problems?

    High blood sugar contributes to poor blood circulation, damaging the nerves in your feet, causing “foot nerve damage.” The patient has to deal with loss of sensation in the foot, for example not realizing even though the leg is injured. This can lead to other serious problems.

    Nerve damage can change the shape of the foot. Open sores can appear on the toes or on the soles of the feet, causing burning pain.

    Some areas of the skin may become hardened and lose sensation. In a worse case, diabetics can experience complications that cause toe spasms.

    How to choose shoes for people with diabetes?

    The condition will be worse if you use an inappropriate pair of shoes, too tight can cause infection for small wounds on the feet. Here are tips on how to choose diabetic shoes, or footwear appropriate for those with diabetes. 

    Use canvas shoes instead of leather shoes

    Choose soft canvas shoes, with laces to change the fit, and remember to wear soft socks (socks) to avoid rubbing on wounds.

    Use strappy sandals instead of closed shoes

    Sandals and sandals will keep your feet dry, not constrained and uncomfortable.

    Have your own diabetic shoes customed

    Diabetics need to choose shoes that fit well, so tailor-made shoes are the best option.

    Adjust your shoes to fit

    Don’t rush to throw away your old shoes. Instead, you can completely change them to suit your feet by buying more pads or insoles!

    People with diabetes need more attention. That concern is sometimes simply choosing the right shoes. This not only improves their health, but also helps them live more happily every day.

    Key Takeaways

    As diabetes affects blood circulation and sensation, addressing wounds on the feet are critical especially as wound healing is also affected by diabetes. To ensure healthy feet and mobility, take extra precautions when it comes to your footwear and foot health. Choose diabetic shoes that are not constricting, breathable, and which still provide ample protection and cushion as you go about your daily activities.

    Learn more about Diabetes Complications here

    Disclaimer

    Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

    Expertly reviewed by

    Dexter Macalintal, MD

    Internal or General Medicine


    Written by Hello Bacsi · Updated Jun 03, 2022

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