Diabetic Shoes

If you have diabetes, the importance of protecting your feet with high quality shoes at all times simply cannot be overstated.

With a good pair of shoes that fits your feet appropriately, those with well-managed diabetes can significantly limit their risk of developing devastating injuries, ulcers, and complications that may lead to amputation or even death.

Without a good pair of shoes, the risk of developing cuts and blisters is much higher—and even “minor inconveniences” such as these can develop into serious problems if not caught and addressed early.

But how do you know whether your pair of shoes is truly “good” or not? Are you getting the protection and support you need from your current pair?

That’s where we come in.

The team at Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma is here to fit you into an optimal pair of diabetic shoes. We guarantee we can find you something that’s not only hugely beneficial to your health, but comfortable and stylish, too.

What Makes Diabetic Shoes Different?

When we say “diabetic shoes” you probably had an image in your mind of a big, bulky white shoe—maybe with an oversized Velcro strap.

Now, we’re not saying there’s anything wrong with that if that’s your style, but the truth is that, at first glance, diabetic shoes look no different from their non-therapeutic counterparts. In fact, you can get diabetic shoes in almost any type, color, style, or fashion, including:

• Dress shoes
• Athletic shoes
• Walking shoes
• Heels
• Sandals
• Work boots
• … and more

However, because these shoes are crafted with diabetes specifically in mind, they boast a set of key features that are hugely beneficial for people with at-risk foot conditions. This includes:

• Extra depth to accommodate removable custom orthotic inserts. Orthotics are critical for helping those with diabetes support and stabilize their feet, and relieve pressure on ulcer-prone areas. With diabetic shoes, you can easily insert custom orthotics, and replace them whenever you’re
• Appropriate width to accommodate toes. The interior dimensions of a good pair of diabetic shoes will eliminate unnecessary pressure and friction on feet and toes, which can in turn lead to ulcers.
• Thick, shock-absorbing soles. These will help lessen the direct impact forces on your heels and feet with each step.
• Seamless interiors. Interior stitching and seams can irritate the skin and lead to breakdown, especially those with sensitive skin.
• Breathable fabrics. Those with diabetes are more prone to skin problems and bacterial or fungal infections due to sweaty feet.

The other major difference—and one that should not be overlooked—is that we’ll be able to help make sure you get the perfect fit for your feet.

When you buy shoes at the store, you’re very likely to get a pair that fits “pretty close,” but not all the way. You may even be forced to compromise—especially on the width—if the store doesn’t have your exact size in stock.

But when you pick up your diabetic shoes from us, we’ll make absolutely sure you get the exact size you need. We’ll measure your feet, order the custom inserts, and fit them to you when they arrive. We’ll even check up on you within two weeks to make sure you’re doing well, and if you need to return or order something new, we’ll handle it for you free of charge, as long as it’s within the allowed time period.

What Are the Benefits of Diabetic Shoes?

A properly fitted pair of diabetic shoes can significantly reduce your risk of developing conditions and complications such as:

• Foot ulcers and wounds—including those that could lead to infection and amputation
• Corns and calluses
• Blisters
• Cracked skin
• Heel pain
• Joint pain
• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Charcot foot
• Numb and tingling feet

Additionally, if you already have some of these conditions, wearing your diabetic shoes can often help relieve or minimize the symptoms (for example, by providing more vertical room for a hammertoe to exist without creating friction), prevent the condition from getting worse, or help it heal properly.

In combination with custom orthotics, diabetic shoes will also help you establish maintain good posture during standing and walking, which can in turn relieve pain and stress in joints and muscles throughout the body, and also promote healthy circulation.

How Much Do They Cost?

We have some great news for you.

Even if you had to pay the full cost out of pocket, diabetic shoes are highly affordable (not that much more than ordinary shoes) and well worth it. However, almost nobody has to pay even that much, because almost all insurances (including Medicare) cover more or all of the cost.

What Are You Waiting For?

A comfortable, stylish, and even potentially life-saving pair of diabetic shoes is out there waiting for you. All you need to do is make an appointment with Dr. Darren Elenburg and the Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma team so we can help you find it!

To schedule an appointment with us at our main office in Oklahoma City please dial (405) 418-2676 today.