We know what brought you here. What are therapeutic shoes and inserts? And when and how to use them? Well, sit tight and read along as we have got all the information about the post-operation therapeutic shoes and inserts you might need. Before starting up we would like to clear some basic questions you might be having about therapeutic shoes and inserts.
Therapeutic shoes
Therapeutic shoes also known as Diabetic shoes provide support and protection for your feet while also lowering your risk of skin breakdown. A doctor may typically prescribe therapeutic shoes when you need necessary support, have bad circulation, foot deformities, etc.
Therapeutic inserts
Therapeutic inserts or therapeutic and diabetic insoles are prescribed for the same aforementioned reasons your doctor might prescribe you therapeutic shoes for. But you can buy them without a prescription too. Therapeutic inserts can be worn inside your shoes to provide additional cushioning and support.
Do I really need Therapeutic Shoes and inserts for diabetes?
With diabetes growing more prevalent in every home, it's critical to pay attention to all areas of your health. This includes keeping your feet in good shape and taking special care of them. If you have diabetes, the first thing you should do is create a robust diabetes management plan that includes not only a healthy diet and appropriate medications but also a pair of medically designed diabetic shoes to avoid amputations, non-healing diseases, and chronic pain.
What makes Therapeutic Shoes different from normal shoes:
Just so you don’t end up buying an ordinary shoe in the name of therapeutic shoes, they are often broader and deeper than conventional shoes to accommodate a specific multi-density insert designed to relieve pressure and calluses on the bottom of the foot. To avoid squeezing the toes, diabetic shoes include a larger toe box.
When to use therapeutic shoes and inserts
It is important to have a prescription from your doctor before evaluating whether you need the foot support or not because what type fits your need is suggested by your doctor. These post-operation shoes are mainly prescribed after the patient undergoes surgery.
You cannot purchase therapeutic shoes and inserts without a medical history or condition in fact a prescription is mandatory to purchase therapeutic shoes and inserts.
The doctor will recommend you to use therapeutic shoes or inserts if you have one or more of the below conditions:
- Foot ulceration
- Foot amputation
- Diabetic Mellitus
- Foot deformity
- Neuropathy
- Poor blood circulation
- Vascular foot disease
- Mobility issues
How to use therapeutic shoes and inserts
Here are some tips and guides on how to use therapeutic shoes and inserts.
1. Custom therapeutic shoes and inserts
Custom therapeutic shoes and inserts are more expensive than ones already available in the market, but they are well worth the money. After your foot condition is assessed, you'll receive a custom-fit, high-quality insert that should last several years. Some insurance companies will cover these as well, so check your policy to see if you're covered.
2. Arch supports
Remove any arch supports or other shoe additions before inserting the insoles. In most cases, inserts can be used easily over a flat shoe insert.
3. Washing your shoes
You can clean your therapeutic shoes with water and mild soap. Allow them to dry completely before putting them back on. If they do get wet, spread them out to dry on a level surface. Do not use a hair dryer to dry them, this may damage your therapeutic shoes. You can check the instructions on your shoes or in the case of customized shoes simply contact your podiatrist.
4. Easy on your feet:
Whether you bought inserts from a store or had a pair custom created by a podiatrist, they should fit snugly in your shoes' soles. They may take a few days or weeks to feel natural, but they should not rub, hurt, or put a strain on your foot.
What to look for in therapeutic shoes:
There are several things to keep in mind when buying therapeutic shoes to ensure that they are not only comfortable but also protect your feet from injury. Consider the following suggestions:
1. Insole
For better results look for shoes with a padded insole to help support and provide comfort to your feet.
2. Material
Ideally, you should look for a material that is soft, elastic, and will protect your feet, such as leather.
3. Toe box
To avoid compressing the toes, choose shoes with a broader toe box.
4. Laces
Choose shoes with laces or an adjustable closing so that you can easily slip them on and adjust them as your feet expand.
Benefits of therapeutic shoes for diabetics
Post-operation shoes have numerous benefits and advantages. They are highly recommended for people with diabetes. Because of the damaged nerves, diabetics are unlikely to feel an injury in their feet, putting them at risk for foot ulcers and infection. Some of the benefits of using therapeutic shoes are listed below.
1. Lower foot ulcer risk:
Poor-fitting shoes, which can create pressure and wounds on the foot, are the most common cause of foot ulcers for diabetics. Therapeutic shoes protect the feet and reduce the risk of foot ulcers.
2. Blood flow improvement:
Therapeutic shoes are made to keep the feet comfy while stimulating blood flow, which is a problem faced by people with diabetes.
3. Reduced Sweating:
Sweaty feet are more likely to develop blisters and other foot problems, which are common among people with diabetes. Therapeutic shoes are made from materials that allow the feet to breathe freely. Skin problems are considerably reduced thanks to post-operation shoes.
4. Low pressure on feet:
Therapeutic shoes use extra cushioning to provide support and relieve pressure from the feet. Walking becomes comfortable and calm on feet regardless of how much you have to walk.
Insurance Coverage:
Your insurance may cover a variety of diabetic footwear options. You may be eligible for a discount or payment for your therapeutic shoes or inserts if you have diabetes and Medicare coverage. Your podiatrist will need to show that you have diabetes, a history of foot issues, and a need for specialized footwear in order to qualify. If you think you might be qualified, talk to your podiatrist or check with your insurance carrier to see if therapeutic shoes and inserts are covered.
How many therapeutic shoes does your insurance cover:
In the case of Medicare, only one pair of diabetic shoes is covered by Medicare per year. They will also pay for three pairs of inserts or six shoe adjustments, or any combination of the two, up to six inserts or modifications. You can visit your insurance website and call the support representative for more details.
Conclusion
Most people avoided therapeutic shoes a few years ago as they didn’t look too fashionable back then, which is not the case anymore.
Many therapeutic shoes resemble regular shoes but provide an extra layer of comfort and safety. Diabetics must avoid foot ulcers and other foot diseases at all costs, and now you have the choice of wearing shoes that look fantastic and feel terrific, while also giving you many health benefits at the same time.
Diabetes affects one out of every four Americans. To reduce these problems, properly suited shoes are necessary. Lower limb amputation is a rising issue for people with diabetes in the past few decades, and this can be fought and minimized with the usage of therapeutic shoes and inserts.
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