The Importance of Proper Footwear for Diabetic Foot Health: Prevent Ulcers and Amputation with the Right Fit

Did you know that more than 25 percent of people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer?

Even more alarming, 1 in 5 of these ulcers can lead to a toe or foot amputation. The good news is that most of these foot ulcers are preventable. Research shows that 4 out of 5 diabetic foot ulcers are caused by poorly fitting shoes. With the right diabetic footwear, you can significantly reduce the risk of minor injuries that could eventually lead to ulcers. At Foot Balance Technology, we assess your foot health risk, accurately measure your feet and recommend or create the perfect shoes for you. When necessary, we also collaborate with your healthcare team to design orthoses that provide better support for your feet. Every person’s foot and their experience with diabetes is different, but everyone with diabetes should see a podiatrist regularly and have a comprehensive foot care plan in place.

Why is this important?

Because working with a healthcare team - including your doctor, podiatrist and pedorthist - can help prevent ulcers before they even start. In fact, this collaboration can reduce your risk of amputation by up to 85 per cent. I’m Sayed Ahmed, Founder of Foot Balance Technology and Australia’s first PhD in Pedorthics. As someone passionate about diabetic foot health, I’ve dedicated years to improving foot care for people with diabetes. My PhD in Diabetic Foot Health and Footwear was a study that builds on my work with High-Risk Foot Clinics at hospitals like Concord, Westmead and St Vincent’s. If there’s one thing my experience and studies have taught me, it’s this: choosing the right shoes really matters! When you think of diabetic footwear, you might picture clunky, unattractive shoes. Let me stop you right there. At Foot Balance Technology, you don’t have to choose between style and foot care. We offer a wide range of stylish, custom-made and prefabricated diabetic footwear options.

While diabetic footwear needs to be “accommodative”:

it can still look good and fit your lifestyle. So, whether you’re walking around town or training for a marathon, the right shoes can keep you moving comfortably. For diabetic footwear, “accommodative” means that the shoes distribute pressure evenly across the soles of your feet to prevent callouses and ulcers. This is critical because diabetes can reduce sensation and circulation in your feet, making it easier for minor injuries to turn into serious problems. Having your shoes professionally fitted by a qualified pedorthist is essential. At Foot Balance Technology, our pedorthists ensure your shoes are the right width, depth and length, with enough toe room to protect your feet. We even offer custom-made shoes tailored to your unique needs. That’s the ultimate in accommodative footwear. If you want to learn more, explore our range of diabetic footwear here. Reach out to our friendly team today to see how Foot Balance Technology can be a vital part of your diabetic foot care plan.