The right fit of shoes is essential to keep you pain-free and on your feet. Wearing shoes that are the incorrect size, shape, or width can cause many issues, particularly if you suffer from diabetes.
Thankfully the vast majority of patients with diabetes know how important good footcare is and this includes choosing the right fit – but it can be tricky maintaining a level of style and comfort.
Start by getting your foot measured if you haven’t done this before (or since you were small). Our feet change – both size and shape as we mature and it’s important you know what size you are so you can get your true fit. Many shoe shop assistants will be happy to help.
When choosing the most suitable footwear remember:
- Always look for shoes with a decent-sized toe box – give your toes room to wiggle and avoid compression on the toes and side of the foot.
- Try to avoid high heels, pointed shoes, open-toed and narrow-heeled shoes to avoid putting too much pressure on or exposure to the feet.
- The best time of day to buy your shoes is late afternoon when your feet are at their largest due to swelling over the day.
- Shoes that lace up provide better support and stability – avoid flip-flops and slip-on shoes! Velcro openings are easy to put on and take off.
- Shop till you drop – or at least until you find a good pair of comfortable shoes that you’ll be able to use – remember better to spend time getting the right shoe rather than wasting money if they don’t fit. If you have to break them in then they are not the right shoe for you.
- Rotate your shoes daily to ensure they get a chance to dry out and change your socks daily.
- Never walk barefoot if you have diabetes – remember that you may have reduced sensation in your feet and may not notice if you get something lodged in your foot.
If you have diabetes then be sure to check in with your diabetes support team at least once a year to have your feet examined. We carry out neurovascular assessments and foot checks on all our patients with diabetes.
Need help? Call our team today to make an appointment. Reed Footcare will keep you on your feet.
Call +353 1 826 2672 now.