The Role of Diabetic Shoes in Preventing Foot Ulcers and Injuries

As a patient managing diabetes, you have a number of health challenges that you must monitor daily, including blood glucose levels. One other important task is to pay close attention to the condition of your feet. Your foot doctor may prescribe diabetic shoes to help you protect your feet and make you more comfortable as you navigate your day. Put your feet first and make time to talk to Dr. Jason Wilks about the benefits of getting diabetic shoes at Wilks Advanced Foot Care in Roseburg, OR.

Diabetic Foot Care

Podiatrists put a high priority on patients who have been diagnosed with diabetes because their limb health is at risk. With uncontrolled diabetes, blood circulation is limited, making it more difficult to get necessary healing agents to the lower extremities. In addition to regular foot examinations, diabetic foot care also includes professional toenail trimming, removal of corns or calluses and the treatment of nerve-related conditions.

Why It’s Important to Prevent Foot Ulcers and Injuries

Even a small cut or wound to the foot or toes can be threatening to the limb health of a diabetic patient. Over time if the wound does not heal it can become infected and turn into an ulcer. Ulcerous, infected wounds can begin to degrade the skin, muscles and eventually the bone if they aren't treated promptly by a podiatrist. In extreme cases, patients may be at risk of amputation. These situations are avoidable when the diabetic patient keeps a close eye on their feet daily and sees the podiatrist for regular appointments.

Getting Diabetic Shoes

One additional option that a podiatrist will likely recommend for a diabetic patient is specialized shoes. Diabetic shoes provided by your Roseburg, OR, podiatrist will be wider set, softer, shock absorbent and orthopedically designed to prevent injuries to the feet. They can also help protect your feet from developing painful calluses, ingrown toenails, bunions and hammertoes that could put them at risk for wounds.

Pay Attention to Your Feet and Toes

Sometimes an investment in something as simple as a new pair of shoes can make a major difference in your overall foot health. See Dr. Jason Wilks at Wilks Advanced Foot Care in Roseburg, OR, for regular diabetic foot care needs including diabetic shoes designed for your comfort and protection. Set an appointment today by calling (541) 673-0742.