Proper footwear is an essential part of an overall treatment program for people with diabetes, even at the earliest stages of the disease. If there is any evidence of neuropathy, wearing the right footwear is crucial.
Diabetic orthotics work to accommodate, stabilize, and cushion the foot while also supporting any deformities present. Both pre-made and custom-made orthotics are commonly recommended for patients with diabetes. Total contact orthoses are created from a model of the patient’s foot and offer a high level of comfort and pressure relief.
An in-depth shoe is a basis for most diabetic footwear prescriptions. The in-depth shoe has an additional 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch of depth throughout the shoe. This extra volume accommodates inserts, orthotics, and deformities commonly associated with a diabetic foot, when present. In-depth shoes are designed to be light in weight, have shock-absorbing soles, and come in a wide range of shapes and sizes to accommodate virtually any foot
For those eligible, Medicare provides coverage for extra depth shoes or specially molded shoes, and inserts, for those with advanced cases of diabetes who have neuropathy and those who have undergone amputation.