| |
 Download Diabetic Prescription Form
|
|
 |
|
|
| |
Diabetics and Footwear
Although proper shoe fit is important for everyone, for people with diabetes, it is literally a matter of life and llimb. There are two primary types of diabetes. Type 1 is often referred to as juvenile diabetes and Type 2 is the form that commonly occurs in adults 45 years of age or older. Because of the nerve damage and poor circulation that often accompany the disease, diabetes is the most common cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputations.
Properly Fitted Shoes are Essential
Proper care, cleaning and examination of the feet are critical for people with diabete. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, poorly fit shoes are involved in as many as half of the problems that lead to amputations. It is absolutely imperative that people with diabetes follow the advice of their doctor concerning all aspects of their diabetes — including the doctor's instructions to wear proper shoes that are properly fit. For diabetes sufferers with peripheral neuopathy, this requires the care of a Certified Pedorthist.
A person with peripheral neuropathy lacks the very sensation required to feel the fit of the shoe. Therefore, it is imperative for a person with peripheral neuropathy to seek the assistance of a trained expert to assure a proper shoe fit.
A Certified Pedorthist, trained in shoe fitting and diabetic foot managament, can expertly select and fit the proper shoe for a person with diabetes. Some people with diabetes have purchased footwear that was too small, causing an ulcer, because they had not been fitted by a trained expert.
People with peripheral neuropathy nearly always insist on a size that is too small because without proper sensation, the correct size seems to be too large. Too small of a shoe can cause a blister or abrasion that can result in an ulcer, which can eventually lead to an amputation. Don't risk losing your feet due to poorly selected or incorrectly fitted shoes! Sometimes you don't get a second chance!
|
|
| |
Next Page >> |
|
|
