Maintaining Support: When To Replace Your Diabetic Shoes

Lake Oconee Boomers

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Maintaining Support: When To Replace Your Diabetic Shoes

When it comes to managing your diabetes, especially as you age, finding comfortable shoes and clothing is the key to success. Not only do these items help keep your body sufficiently supported as you go about your daily life, but they also ensure your comfort and reduce the likelihood of injury. So when the time finally comes to replace your current pair of diabetic shoes, it’s vital that you act quickly to avoid future problems. Here are a few signs that indicate when to replace your diabetic shoes.

Excessive Wear and Tear

One of the first things to be on the lookout for is excessive wear and tear to your shoes over time. It’s only natural that shoes will break down as we wear them, and diabetic shoes are no different. Since they’re specially designed for support and protection, they may even sustain more damage as you accidentally scrape up the toes or pressurize the soles as you go about your business. So watch for tearing or rub marks along the interior of the shoe and any breakdown of the toe box. This will let you know when the shoes simply aren’t cutting it anymore.

Increased Pain in Your Feet or Legs

As your shoes wear down, you might also notice increased pain in your feet or legs. Those living with diabetes have a much greater risk of developing corns, bunions, and other conditions that inhibit your comfort while walking. Because of this, it’s vital that you have a pair of shoes that provides enough support to reduce the pressure on these sensitive areas. Having these pains is enough to show that your diabetic shoes can’t do this and that you’ll need a new pair soon.

Changes in Foot Size

Another sign that indicates when to replace your diabetic shoes is an overall change in your personal foot size. For these shoes to provide the proper support and protection for your feet, it’s crucial that they’re the right size. Otherwise, you’re even more at risk for developing painful symptoms. So if you’ve noticed that your shoes are tighter than they were previously, you may have gone up a size.

There are several things to look for when choosing diabetic-friendly shoes, and they remain the same no matter how many pairs you’ve previously owned. Once you know you need a new pair, approach the purchasing process carefully to ensure you’re getting something that best suits your needs. In doing so, you’re working to maintain sufficient support for your body, keeping your days comfortable and as active as possible.