Why Choose Therapeutic Shoes?

Many patients inquire why their Podiatrist or Primary Care Doctor recommends therapeutic shoes also known as diabetic shoes. Diabetic patients are taught the importance of overall health which of course includes the feet. What is not realized is not every shoe is made to properly protect and prevent foot problems. If you or someone you know has diabetes, neuropathy or other foot ailments, the following information will help offer a better understanding of why therapeutic shoes are crucial in your foot care:

One of the main goals is to relieve areas of excessive pressure. This is particularly important on the bottom of the foot. When you have repetitive pressure in one area, this can lead to ulceration. In particular, the metatarsal heads (forefoot)  are sensitive to pressure. A properly fitting shoe and insert combination can reduce pressure and help redistribute the pressure more evenly across the foot.

Shock - Reducing shock is really important especially for those who have feet that are bony or even abnormal bone structure such as Charcot foot. In addition to reducing specific high pressure, reducing the amount of vertical pressure is also desired.

Reduce Shear - Reducing the horizontal movement of the foot within the shoe, better known as shear also helps in minimizing the occurrence of ulceration.

Deformities - Conditions such as fatty tissue loss or amputations need to be accommodated. Pressure from shoe uppers on hammer toes or claw toes are also of concern and should be minimized. It is important to stabilize and support the deformities. This is most commonly assisted by an insert specific to the foot ailment. Generally, ridged deformities must be accommodated while flexible deformities require support and/or stabilization.

Limit Joint Motion – limiting motion of the joints can decrease inflammation, help in reducing pain and offer a more stable functional foot.

When visiting with your Podiatrist request a referral to visit with a Certified Pedorthist (C.Ped.). The C.Ped. can assist you in the proper shoe type and additional accommodations as needed. Keep in mind, proper fitting shoes not only make your feet feel good and protect them, thanks to today's educated shoe designers, the shoes look great too!