The 6 Best Shoes Podiatrists Recommend for People With Diabetes | Livestrong.com (2024)

FAQs

Do diabetic shoes really work? ›

The diabetic shoes and custom-molded inserts work together as a preventive system to help diabetics avoid foot injuries and improve mobility. The evidence for special footwear to treat diabetic foot ulcers is poor but their effectiveness for prevention is well-established.

Medicare pays only for therapeutic footwear from Medicare-approved suppliers, reimbursing 80% of the cost either to the patient or after the Part B deductible is met. The patient is responsible for the other 20% -- or more if the supplier does not "accept assignment" from Medicare.

"Athletic, stable sneakers with semi-rigid soles would be the most comfortable," podiatrist Dr. Asim Sayed says. Board-certified podiatric foot surgeon Dr. Suzanne Levine also suggests looking for styles that are "soft and shock-absorbent with good ankle support."

Why We Recommend It. New Balance is known for its superior cushioning and support, and the Fresh Foam 1080 v12 offers just that. With an innovative foam midsole (hence the name), the shoe conforms to your foot to offer the perfect amount of support based on your foot shape and arch height.

The doctor who treats your diabetes must certify your need for therapeutic shoes or inserts. A podiatrist (foot doctor) or other qualified doctor must prescribe the shoes or inserts, and you must get the shoes or inserts from one of these: A podiatrist. An orthotist.

Diabetic individuals may not feel minor injuries due to neuropathy, and walking barefoot increases the risk of cuts, scrapes and bruises. Stay away from high heels and pointy shoes: High heels and pointy shoes put excessive pressure on specific areas of the feet, leading to discomfort and potential foot problems.

Diabetic Shoes are considered durable medical equipment (DME) and require a prescription from your provider. You can call your insurance provider and ask about your benefits for diabetic shoes. Alternatively, our patient care coordinator Beata can help you out with a complimentary benefits check.

Wear socks. If you have diabetes, remember that not all socks are created equal. Try to choose socks that: Are white or light-colored to make it easy to spot any bleeding or drainage, for example, if you have a cut or an ingrown toenail.

Will Medicare pay for podiatry services? Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers podiatrist foot exams or treatment if: You have diabetes-related nerve damage. You need medically necessary treatment for foot injuries or diseases.

NHS podiatry services are offered free of charge. Treatment is directed at three specialist areas of care: People with diabetes and/or other circulatory or neurological conditions that can affect foot health.

Are Skechers shoes good for diabetics? ›

Whether it's the responsive cushioning of the Ultra Go technology, the podiatrist-certified arch support of the Arch Fit Insole System, or the fashionable designs of the BOBS Plush collection, Skechers has become a go-to choice for those seeking diabetic footwear.

Though there are many other great brands of shoes, some examples of tennis shoe brands that provide good support are Brooks, Asics, New Balance, and Hoka,” Dr. Jensen said. “Typically, these brands are going to have different models for different foot types.”

Salty Foods: Foods high in sodium, such as potato chips, cold cuts, and frozen prepared meals, can be an issue for neuropathy patients because high levels of sodium can lead to restricted blood flow, which may cause a flare-up of symptoms.

Whether it's the responsive cushioning of the Ultra Go technology, the podiatrist-certified arch support of the Arch Fit Insole System, or the fashionable designs of the BOBS Plush collection, Skechers has become a go-to choice for those seeking diabetic footwear.

Diabetic shoe provides a spacious toe-box to offer extra room for the toes—especially important when considering deformities such as bunions or hammertoes. They also often have extra depth to accommodate custom orthotic inserts, providing even greater support and distribution of weight away from pressure points.

Patients are encouraged to wear crocs after surgery especially when the feet have swollen. Diabetic patients are also encouraged to wear crocs during summer because they are more comfortable compared to diabetic shoes. These kinds of shoes are also cooler to wear in a warm environment.

For each individual, coverage provides for one pair of extra depth shoes and three pairs of inserts annually. Medicare will pay 80% of the eligible cost. Secondary insurance may completely cover the remaining cost.