November is National Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness about a condition closely linked to foot health. Chronic high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves in the lower limbs, increasing the risk of serious foot complications.
For help maintaining healthy, functional feet, turn to our team at Ahwatukee Foot & Ankle Center. We offer expert guidance and specialized treatments for patients with diabetes, including custom-fit shoes and orthotics.
If you’re one of over 38 million Americans with diabetes, choosing the right shoes isn’t just a matter of comfort or style — the wrong choice could pose a serious threat to your foot health. This month, explore our guide to the do’s and don’ts of diabetic footwear.
Because diabetes can lead to a loss of sensation (neuropathy) and poor circulation in the feet, even small cuts, blisters, and abrasions can quickly become serious issues. Making smart choices when it comes to your footwear is essential to maintain your long term health.
Here’s what to keep in mind when you're shoe shopping:
Instead of just grabbing your usual size, have a professional measure your feet each time, as your foot size and width can change with age. Normal swelling can cause fluctuations throughout the day, so always try on shoes in the late afternoon or evening when your feet are naturally at their largest.
Make sure the shoe is deep enough to comfortably accommodate your toes without pressing on them. It also should be wide enough for you to stretch and wiggle your toes freely. This prevents excessive pressure and rubbing that can lead to troublesome blisters and sores.
Friction from stitched seams, rough labels, and stiff shoe interiors is a common cause of blisters, which can rapidly turn into slow-healing sores and ulcers when you have diabetes. Look for shoes with extra padding and a removable insole to accommodate any necessary custom orthotics without crowding the foot.
Choosing shoes made of supportive, yet breathable materials like leather or mesh helps keep your feet cool and dry throughout the day. This minimizes the moist environment where fungal infections tend to thrive.
Your socks are your first line of defense against friction, pressure, and injuries. Specialized diabetic socks or stockings may be the right choice for some, but at minimum, choose ones that fit well, aren’t too tight, and are made from moisture-wicking materials like wool or synthetic fabrics.
If you have existing diabetic foot complications, such as ulcers or neuropathy, consult with our podiatry team before making any footwear decisions. We can provide personalized advice and specialized fittings to ensure that your new shoes are right for your therapeutic needs.
When you’re in a hurry, it’s tempting to just throw on whichever shoes are most convenient. But even seemingly comfortable options could put your feet at risk. Watch out for these common foot health pitfalls:
Sandals, flip-flops, and other open-toed shoes leave your skin vulnerable to cuts, scrapes, and bruises. This is especially dangerous for patients with neuropathy, who may not even feel the injury happen.
Footwear with high heels or pointed toes increases the pressure on certain areas of your feet, causing friction and pain. Tight, constricting shoes can worsen circulation problems.
Shoes with thin soles offer little to no protection against puncture wounds from everyday hazards like broken glass or a stray nail on the ground. If you have diabetes, avoid going barefoot — wear socks and solid-soled shoes at all times, even at home.
Managing diabetes and preventing its complications requires a proactive approach and a dedicated team of specialists. For personalized diabetic foot care and custom-made orthotics, contact Ahwatukee Foot & Ankle Center in Phoenix and Maricopa, Arizona.
