What is Diabetic Footwear?

Diabetes can be a contributing factor in a range of related problems, including leg and foot pain. Used in conjunction with a foot care regimen advised by a podiatrist or certified pedorthist, diabetic footwear can help alleviate the foot pain and discomfort commonly experienced by those with diabetes. Proper foot care is essential for anyone with diabetes.

A common cause of foot problems is neuropathy, or damage to the peripheral nervous system that is known to occur in many people with diabetes. Among other symptoms, nerve damage to the feet can cause pain as well as numbness or tingling. The lack of sensitivity resulting from nerve damage in the feet can prevent a person from noticing and subsequently treating foot problems such as blisters, cuts or ulcers, leading these conditions to worsen.

Poor circulation to the feet and toes is another factor that can lead to diabetic foot pain. As narrower arteries decrease circulation, less oxygen is supplied to the lower legs, feet and toes, reducing their ability to recover from infections and other problems. In addition to neuropathy and a decline in circulation, other issues caused or exacerbated by diabetes can lead to foot pain. Among these are ulcers, calluses and infections. Diabetic footwear is designed to help alleviate the pain that is often associated with such conditions.

Diabetic shoes provide optimal support for the arch, heel and ankle while controlling the distribution of weight such that painful pressure points are avoided as much as possible. Many types of diabetic shoes also allow extra room inside so that custom orthotic inserts can be worn with them for optimal comfort.

The options and styles for diabetic shoes were in the past quite limited, but today a wide range of styles are available. People with diabetes can now find comfortable footwear for any purpose or occasion, including running shoes, casual dress shoes, sandals and loafers.

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Note: This information is not intended to supplement or replace advice from a medical professional, or to diagnose or treat any condition.

About MMAR Medical Group: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a wholesale distributor of comfort footwear offering a wide selection of shoes for diabetics as well as custom made orthotics. Please visit www.mmarmedical.com for more information.