15 December 2023
Four Ways Diabetic Footwear Helps with Neuropathy
Proper foot care is essential to prevent complications with diabetes, and diabetic footwear should be part of your foot care routine. Let’s look at four ways diabetic footwear helps manage and alleviate neuropathy symptoms.
- Pressure Redistribution. One of the primary benefits of diabetic footwear is pressure redistribution. Neuropathy can lead to areas of the foot being more prone to pressure sores and ulcers. Diabetic shoes are designed with extra cushioning, support, and a wider toe box to distribute pressure evenly across the foot. This reduces the risk of injury and promotes healing in case of existing ulcers.
- Improved Circulation. Neuropathy can cause poor foot circulation, slowing the healing process and increasing the risk of infections. Diabetic footwear promotes blood flow, including non-binding uppers and seamless interiors. These shoes also accommodate custom orthotics or specialized insoles, which can further improve circulation by supporting the arch and reducing pressure on the plantar surface of the foot.
- Enhanced Protection. Diabetic neuropathy can lead to a loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult to detect injuries or foreign objects. Diabetic shoes are designed to provide extra protection against injuries that might go unnoticed. They are made with durable materials and often have reinforced toe boxes to shield the feet from accidental bumps or impacts. Additionally, the seamless construction prevents irritation from seams or stitching that could cause blisters or abrasions.
- Better Support and Stability. Foot deformities or imbalances, such as flat feet or high arches, can exacerbate neuropathy symptoms. Diabetic footwear is designed to provide the necessary support and stability to accommodate these issues. With features like rigid heel counters, contoured footbeds, and adjustable closures, diabetic shoes can help maintain proper foot alignment and minimize the strain on joints and muscles.
Diabetic footwear is crucial in managing neuropathy and promoting overall foot health for those with diabetes. At Tierney Orthotics and Prosthetics, we offer a wide range of diabetic footwear options to cater to your needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards better foot health.
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Since 2014, Tierney Orthotics and Prosthetics has become the Winston-Salem, North Carolina area’s preferred source for orthotics, prosthetics, diabetic footwear, mastectomy prosthetics, and shoe inserts.