If you have diabetes, diabetic shoe gear and orthotics can reduce the risk of complications and improve your quality of life. At North Florida Foot & Ankle Specialists, Joshua Epstein, DPM, AACFAS, FACPM, and Sarina Epstein, DPM, AACFAS, offer diabetic shoe gear and orthotics to people of all ages. To make an appointment in Gainesville or Lake City, Florida, call the nearest office today.
What are diabetic shoe gear and orthotics?
Diabetic shoe gear and orthotics are prescription footwear designed for people with diabetes. Specifically, they’re made of soft, padded materials that relieve pressure on diabetic ulcers and increase circulation to your feet.
If you have diabetes, you’re at risk of experiencing peripheral neuropathy or permanent nerve damage. If the nerves in your feet don’t work as they should, you might step on a sharp object and not realize it. Over time, that wound could become infected, resulting in gangrene or the need for amputation.
Diabetic shoe gear and orthotics reduce the risk of these and other potentially serious complications.
What conditions can benefit from diabetic shoe gear and orthotics?
North Florida Foot & Ankle Specialists uses diabetic shoe gear and orthotics to treat various conditions, including:
- Open sores
- Slow-healing wounds and ulcers
- Bunions
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoes
- Fungal infections
You might also benefit from diabetic shoe gear and orthotics if you have an ingrown toenail or an infected wound.
What are the types of diabetic shoe gear and orthotics?
North Florida Foot & Ankle Specialists offers several types of diabetic shoe gear and orthotics, including:
In-depth diabetic shoes
In-depth shoes are significantly deeper than traditional sneakers. This extra room reduces pressure on various foot problems, like calluses or hammertoes. What’s more, in-depth diabetic shoes can accommodate 3D custom orthotics or over-the-counter inserts.
Healing diabetic shoes
If you have a diabetic ulcer or you’ve recently undergone foot surgery, your provider might recommend healing diabetic shoes. Healing shoes protect and pad your feet, encouraging your body’s natural healing process.
Custom diabetic shoes
If you have bunions, corns, or other foot problems as a result of diabetes, your provider might recommend custom diabetic shoes. Custom diabetic shoes are manufactured to the unique curves of your feet. They provide extra support and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.
Accommodative orthotics
Accommodative orthotics are made from cushion-like materials that take pressure off your feet. You wear them on the insides or the outsides of your shoes.
To see if you’re a candidate for diabetic shoe gear and orthotics, make an appointment at North Florida Foot & Ankle Specialists by calling the nearest office today.