The Types of Shoes You Should Avoid If You Have Diabetes

Having diabetes isn’t easy. However, if you take the proper precautions, you won’t feel like you’re at the end of your rope. One of the biggest problems that people with diabetes have is foot pain. It’s hard to mitigate that, but the type of shoes you wear can help you with your foot pain or worsen it. So, what types of shoes should you avoid if you have diabetes? Read on below to find out.

Avoid Sandals and Flip Flops

Summer is over, but it’ll be right back around the corner before you know it. Those living in a southern city will likely be tempted to wear sandals and flip-flops year-round. However, that’s not the best idea. People with diabetes often have issues with wounds and slow healing processes, so leaving the feet exposed to gravel, concrete, and other debris can cause scuffing, cuts, scratches, or wounds. In addition, sandals usually don’t have the sole support that you need. People with diabetes require appropriate (and often customized) insoles for added support. You don’t get that with sandals. Instead, choose a closed-toe, firm-backed shoe. This will protect your feet from any damage.

Avoid Shoes Made of Soft Material

You’re looking for a lightweight and flexible material to increase circulation in your legs. This is especially important if you have diabetic neuropathy, which will only worsen if circulation is cut off at your feet. Avoid shoes made of tough, inflexible material like shoes made completely of rubber. This is particularly true of boots, which you may sweat in instead if you need to wear them. There are many diabetic boots for men and women on the market. In the event you do wear shoes made out of softer materials, make sure that there is adequate protection in the toe box and heel counter.

Avoid Shoes That are Not Adjustable

You should avoid shoes that are not adjustable if you have diabetes. It’s important that your shoes are adjustable through laces, elastic laces or Velcro. This allows you to customize the fit of your shoes specifically to your feet. Additionally, if you have trouble reaching your toes you should try the styles with Velcro straps. It will be a lot easier to adjust. You should also avoid narrow shoes and instead get breathable, wide shoes for the best foot care.

In short, there are many different shoes you should avoid. There are also many that you should take a second look at. We have an extensive shoe collection here at Anodyne.. Shop our full collection of diabetic shoes today!