Hip-hop mogul and newly-announced 2020 presidential candidate Kanye West knows a thing or two about footwear. ‘Ye—as all the cool kids affectionately refer to him—not only designs and sports rockin’ kicks, but he has also made providing everyone with a pair of Yeezys part of his platform to sway future voters. Now, Mr. West might be slightly better at rapping and self-promotion than anyone here at Foot Specialists of Long Island, but we have an edge over him when it comes to understanding the functionality of footwear, especially with regard to diabetic shoes.
There is a strong connection between feet and diabetes. This particular condition can lead to issues with both sensation (neuropathy) and circulation (peripheral arterial disease) in your lower limbs. Together, these form a dangerous combination that increases the risk of medical complications. In order to prevent serious issues, individuals living with the disease need to have a diabetic foot care plan in place.
A plan like this serves two major purposes – prevention and protection. Footwear choices are a major component of both. Diabetic shoes are responsible for relieving excess pressure on the feet, reducing vertical and horizontal forces, limiting joint motion, and accommodating, stabilizing, and supporting structural deformities. Footwear for those who live with diabetes is typically deeper and wider than “normal” shoes, so as to provide room for custom orthotics.
To help those with diabetes, we can prescribe special footwear. The advantage of having our professionals do this for you is that you do not have to worry about whether or not a particular pair will help meet the objective of keeping your feet safe. In addition to special shoes, our office also prescribes and prepares custom orthotic devices. These inserts are placed into footwear to either correct biomechanical issues or provide extra support and cushioning for your feet.
Having the right pair of shoes is one facet of effective diabetic foot care, but there are other considerations as well. Let our professionals at Foot Specialists of Long Island answer any questions you might have and help you create a plan to keep your feet safe and healthy. Give us a call at (516) 804-9038 or take advantage of our online form to request your appointment with our Massapequa, NY office today.
