Footwear Do’s and Don’ts for Happy Diabetic Feet

Diabetes has become common among all age groups of people. For people with diabetes, their feet are the most important thing to protect. Proper circulation and nerve function are essential for feeling your feet and preventing injuries that can go unnoticed. That’s why choosing the right shoes for your foot burning problem is more important than just finding a cute pair. Here are the do’s and don’ts of diabetic footwear recommendations.

Do’s:

• Find the perfect fit: Wrong-fitting shoes are the enemy of happy feet. Get your feet measured professionally, especially if you’ve noticed any changes in size or shape due to diabetes. There should be a little extra room for your toes, but not so much that your foot slides around. This wide room helps absorb shock and prevent blisters during walking.

• Breathe easy: Look for shoes made from breathable materials like leather or mesh. Your feet remain dry and cool thanks to the materials’ ability to let air circulate. Sweaty feet can lead to irritation, fungus, and even skin breakdown. It is not ideal for anyone, especially someone who is taking foot burning treatment  may have reduced feeling in their feet.

• Sock it up: Diabetic socks are specially designed to provide extra padding and moisture control. They can help prevent blisters, absorb away sweat, and keep your feet comfortable throughout the day. Avoid wearing tight-fitting socks that can interfere with circulation and opt instead for socks made of natural fibers like cotton or wool. Consider seamless options to avoid any uncomfortable rubbing against your toes, if available.

• Support system: Shoes with good arch support are essential for distributing pressure evenly across your feet. This helps prevent pain, strain, and foot problems like calluses, which can easily become infected if not noticed due to nerve damage. Look for shoes with built-in arch support or consider using arch inserts for added comfort and support, especially if you spend a lot of time on your feet.

• Spacious toes: Give your toes some room to breathe. Avoid shoes with pointed toes that can squeeze your toes together. Always go for diabetic footwear with a wide toe box to allow for natural movement and prevent cramping. This is especially important for people who are taking treatment for burning feet , who may experience bunions or hammertoes due to nerve damage.

Don’ts:

• Barefoot blues: Avoid walking barefoot, even inside the house. Even a small cut or scrape in your foot can become a serious problem if not noticed and treated promptly due to nerve damage in your feet. To keep your feet safe from harm, wear shoes at all times.

• High heels: Heels can put extra pressure on the balls of your feet, leading to pain and discomfort. Go for flat diabetic footwear or shoes with a low heel for better comfort and support. This is especially important for people with diabetes who may already experience pain or numbness in their feet.

• Stitch: Beware of shoes with rough seams or stitches inside that can rub against your feet and cause irritation. Choose shoes with smooth linings or seamless construction to prevent discomfort or irritation. This is an important detail that you must look at carefully, as even minor irritation can lead to problems for someone with diabetic foot.

• Feeling the squeeze: Tight shoes restrict circulation and can worsen nerve pain. Choose shoes that fit comfortably without pinching or squeezing your feet. There should be enough space to move your toes freely. This allows for proper blood flow and prevents blisters or calluses on your feet.

• Open season: Open-toed footwear or flip-flops may seem like a cool choice, but they offer very little protection for your feet. They can also increase your risk of injury from bumps or scratches and expose your feet to objects, which can be problematic for those with diabetes. Choose closed-toe shoes that provide adequate protection for your entire foot.

• Style over comfort: While looking good is important, prioritize comfort when choosing shoes. Don’t force your feet into a pair of shoes that are uncomfortable or don’t fit properly. There are plenty of stylish shoes out there that are also good for your feet! Look for brands that cater to diabetic needs and offer a variety of styles with proper support and fit.

Taking care of your feet is an essential part of managing diabetic foot. Customised diabetic footwear focusing on your foot health and foot wellness is advisable. Follow these footwear do’s and don’ts, to keep your feet comfortable, healthy, and happy! Don’t hesitate to consult your doctor or a podiatrist (foot doctor) for personalized advice on choosing the best shoes for your specific needs. They can help you find shoes that not only look great but also promote good foot health and prevent complications.