The importance of good shoes if you have diabetes

If you have diabetes you need the correct fitted shoes that are diabetic friendly. People who have circulation problems or damage to the nerves (neuropathy) need to take special care of their feet. Never go barefoot and wear appropriate shoes to protect your feet – e.g. sandals (not open-toed ones) for the beach, closed-in shoes for gardening or maintenance, sports shoes for exercise.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. Insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, helps glucose from food get into your cells to be used for energy. Sometimes your body doesn't make enough—or any—insulin or doesn't use insulin well.

There are two common types of Diabetes:

Type 1 - a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin.
Type 2 - a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar

Foot problems are a common complication of diabetes.

Diabetes can affect your feet in two ways. It can affect your blood supply and your nerves. Changes to your blood supply can result in slower healing. Damage to the nerves can result in loss of feeling and responsiveness to soreness or pain.

It is important to note that this information has been compiled to help people with diabetes take care of their foot health, but we would always recommend working in conjunction with your health care professional for tailored advice.

Wearing the appropriate footwear, as well as keeping active, is important for people with diabetes.

Foot health tips for people with diabetes include:

Check the condition of your feet daily. Inspect them for any changes, swelling, redness or breaks in the skin. Any changes should be promptly reported to your health care professional.
Wash your feet every day and dry well between the toes.
Moisturise dry skin. Nourish feet with a good quality foot cream to help prevent cracked skin.
Wear well-fitting socks. Avoid tight elastic tops and seams that may rub.
Wear well-fitting shoes. Check inside for objects or folded lining before putting them on. Ensure there is ample wiggle room around your toes in shoes, and that your shoes have the correct support for your particular health needs.

People who have circulation problems or damage to the nerves (neuropathy) need to take special care of their feet. Never go barefoot and wear appropriate shoes to protect your feet – e.g. sandals (not open-toed ones) for the beach, closed-in shoes for gardening or maintenance, sports shoes for exercise.